A central vertical petal, called either a standard or banner , is flanked by two more petals called wings . Below them are two more petals called keels . The keels enclose the 10 stamens and the pistil. When an insect lands on the flower seeking nectar, the keel petals bend down and expose the stamens. The pollen gets transferred to another flower as the bee continues to make its rounds, and cross-pollination is achieved.
Redbud flowers are edible, with a slightly nutty flavor.
They can be added to pancakes or fritters or used as an attractive garnish on salads. If you want to sample Redbud flowers, remember, as with the gathering of any wild edible, don't take all that you find. Leave plenty for the tree to produce seeds, for the insects to get nectar and pollen and for people to enjoy for their beauty. When green and tender, the seed pods are also edible and can be cooked and served with butter just like peas. As they mature, the pods become brown and papery.