This Cercis forms a large shrub to small tree with a round to fan-shaped crown. 'Merlot' can reach a height of 6-10 m and grow at least as wide. The large heart-shaped leaves are intensely glossy black-purple when unfurling and remain dark brown-purple, especially in the first half of summer. In the second half of summer, the leaves become more green-purple, slightly lighter than in 'Forest Pansy'. Around April-May, the bundles of dark pink flowers open, beautifully combining with the dark leaves.
'Merlot' arose from a cross between C. canadensis 'Forest Pansy' and 'Texas White' and grows slightly harder than 'Forest Pansy'. Best planted in nutrient-rich, preferably loamy or calcareous soil that is sufficiently moist but permeable. The tree is sensitive to stagnant water around the roots. Also, 'Merlot' is moderately wind resistant and cannot be used in paved areas. Plant preferably in full sun. Hardiness zone 4
Cercis canadensis 'Merlot' rastie priemerne rastúci a môže dorastať do výšky v závislosti od podmienok stanovišťa a klímy.
Listy stromu Cercis canadensis 'Merlot' sa na jeseň sfarbia do žltá, oranžová."
Správny čas na výsadbu stromu je mimo vegetačné obdobie. V strednej Európe môže byť Cercis canadensis 'Merlot' so zemným balom vysadený od polovice novembra do konca apríla, avšak závisí to veľmi od klimatických podmienok a druhu stromu.