PHOTOS: How to Get the Viral ‘3-D’ Tree in the Hudson Valley

I thought the crazy-looking tree that went viral on social media was some sort of rare tropical plant... until I saw it in my neighbor's backyard in Newburgh (below).

It can be hard to know what to plant in the Hudson Valley. Not only does the weather throw us curveballs, but with so many invasive species to watch out for (including a tree that's sold in New York even though it's illegal in other states), it's crucial to make the right decisions.

Viral "Optical Illusion" Tree Spotted in the Hudson Valley

The good news is that the tree I spotted in Newburgh isn't potentially dangerous like the Bradford pear or invasive like the princess tree. Not only can it thrive in the Hudson Valley's climate, but the leaves produce one of the coolest natural illusions (below).

Eastern Redbud Trees in New York State

The tree, called the eastern redbud, has many admirable traits, but the characteristic that made it famous has to do with the colors and pattern of its leaves. It's also important to note that only one specific cultivar of the eastern redbud has this impressive foliage.

Viral Rising Sun Eastern Redbud Tree in New York

There are many cultivars (varieties specifically cultivated by humans) of the eastern redbud including the forest pansy, royal white, and Appalachian red. It's the Rising Sun eastern redbud, however, that's been getting the recent attention.

The Rising Sun eastern redbud (a trademarked cultivar) is known for the optical illusion provided by its leaves. The "trick" occurs when leaves start to turn color at different times on a single tree, with orange, yellow, and green leaves combining to create a blurry, 3-D effect (below).

Currently, it seems like the tree's popularity has made it difficult to find, with many New York (and national) nurseries listing the Rising Sun eastern redbud as out of stock. Experts recommend the "Hearts of Gold" eastern redbud cultivar as another option. Check out a different type of viral tree moment below.