How old is the tree? Is that inline drip tubing in the circle around it? If the tree was in a pot and recently planted most of the roots will still be in the original root ball which may not be getting enough water from the tubing laid out beyond the rootball. Hot summer weather may have been the trigger for this and the soil mix in the original pot may have dried out enough to make it hydrophobic, that's a common problem for recent plantings in the dry CA summer climate. After several years when the roots have grown out into the soil it isn't an issue. Check the rootball right at the base of the plant to see if it's dry.

Thanks Kent. It's been in the ground a couple years now. I think at least 2. I suspect that it's due to lack of water because when I posted the photo the soil was pretty dry. I will plan to give it more water this week. But here's a closeup of some of the leaves. If I can get the photo to load.

We have 2 Redbud trees. 0ne is about over 10 years and the other is about 2 years old. I have Always heard that newly planted trees should get long deep waterings. for our newer Redbud, I turn on the hose low for 30-45 minutes.

Thanks DL! That's what I am going to try this month, less frequent but longer watering!