Redbud – Cercis canadensis – native

Blooming from March-May in a stunning display of pink flowers, the Redbud tree typically reaches heights of 15-30 feet and is popular as ornamentation. It is pollinated by a variety of bees that are attracted by both the tree’s nectar and pollen. The flowers and buds are high in vitamin C and can be eaten alongside the young pods, which are consumed raw, boiled or sauteed. When the tree’s twigs are boiled in water, a yellow dye is produced. 

Sources: The Growing Place

illinoiswildflowers.info