Flowering cherry trees are among the most stunning trees to cultivate, showcasing their breathtaking blossoms every spring. The National Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington D.C. highlights this beauty, as thousands of cherry trees bloom, creating a striking spectacle.
These trees typically grow to a manageable height, making them suitable for most yards. Simple flowering varieties feature clusters of five pink or white petals, while semi-double and double-flower types boast additional rows of petals, extending the colorful display. Some even emit delightful fragrances and can be categorized as fast-growing flowering trees.
Another appeal of flowering cherries is their vibrant autumn foliage, which showcases fiery hues of red, orange, and yellow. Certain species produce purplish young leaves in spring, while others have shiny mahogany bark, adding winter interest. Experts endorse these trees for their minimal care requirements and year-round visual appeal.
Spring blossoms on a prunus 'Kanzan' are truly captivating.
With extensive expertise in horticulture, Graham trained at the renowned Royal Botanic Gardens in Kew, England. He has authored over 20 books on plants and gardening and has judged at the Chelsea Flower Show, with 20 years of gardening experience in Pennsylvania.
Key Facts About Flowering Cherry Trees
- Plant type: Deciduous tree
- Mature size: 6-50ft
- Soil type: Fertile soil, avoid waterlogged conditions
- Soil pH: Neutral to alkaline
- Best planting time: Spring or fall
- Flowering period: Spring
- Flower colors: White, pink, magenta-pink
- Hardiness zones: USDA Z5-8
- Scientific name: Flowering cherry
- Common name: Prunus
Types of Flowering Cherry Trees
Various flowering cherry species bloom at different times, offering a succession of blossoms throughout the season. The experts at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden note that there's no single moment when all trees bloom, making for a prolonged enjoyment of cherry blossoms.
There are two primary categories of flowering cherry trees:
- Japanese flowering cherry trees: Cultivated in Japan for centuries, these small, easy-to-grow trees come in various shapes, from low and weeping to tall and upright. Different cultivars bloom at varying times from early to late spring, lasting only weeks. Selecting multiple varieties can extend the blooming period. Flower colors range from white to shades of pink, and while these cherries grow quickly, they tend to have shorter lifespans.
- Winter flowering cherry trees: Varieties such as Prunus x subhirtella flower intermittently from fall to early spring in milder climates. In colder regions, blooming occurs in early spring. These trees feature pink or white flowers and often exhibit beautiful fall foliage, making them ideal for autumn color.
A flowering cherry tree enhances any garden setting.
Selecting the Perfect Flowering Cherry Tree
When choosing a flowering cherry tree, consider the flower color and desired shape, whether you prefer an upright, rounded, or weeping form. If you want to plant multiple trees, opt for different colors or varieties that bloom at staggered times.
For example, 'Accolade' offers semi-double pink flowers and a spreading form, while 'Kwanzan' features deep pink double blooms and a more upright growth habit. The Yoshino cherry, Prunus yedoensis, forms a lovely umbrella-shaped tree.
For a more natural look, consider Prunus cerasifera 'Pissardii' (pink flowers with dark red foliage) or Sargent's cherry (Prunus sargentii), known for its stunning fall foliage.
In warmer areas (USDA Z7-8), Prunus x subhirtella 'Autumnalis' is delightful as it blooms when few other trees do.
Monrovia recommends 'Kwanzan' flowering cherry, available online. This tree showcases large clusters of deep pink blooms and a lovely vase shape, making it a stunning choice for driveways or lawns.
Prunus serrulata 'Kwanzan'
Planting Flowering Cherry Trees
Flowering cherries thrive in full sun and adapt to various soil types. Plant in spring or fall, or during mild winter spells in zones 8 and 9. They need a cold winter period to bloom, so avoid the deep south.
Preparing the planting site is straightforward, though incorporating well-rotted organic matter is beneficial. Water regularly during the first couple of years until established. Mulching after planting helps retain moisture.
Staking is crucial for bare-root or tube trees; use a vertical stake for bare-root trees and an angled stake for containerized or balled-and-burlapped trees to protect roots.
Prevent root damage during planting to avoid unwanted shoots. Also, safeguard newly planted trees from deer and rabbits.
Cherry trees can also flourish in containers, making them suitable for patios.
Water your flowering cherry tree thoroughly post-planting.
Maintaining Flowering Cherry Trees
Pruning isn't often needed, as these trees usually maintain their natural shape. If necessary, prune in mid to late summer to allow quicker healing. Limit pruning to essential shaping to reduce disease risks. Remove vigorous root or trunk shoots promptly.
Refresh your chosen mulch annually and apply tree feed during the early years to support healthy growth. Waterlogging can hinder growth; avoid poorly drained sites and control watering to prevent over-saturation.
Prunus 'Royal Burgundy' features striking pink flowers and deep purple leaves.
Propagating Flowering Cherry Trees
Home gardeners find it challenging to propagate cherry blossom trees, as they rarely root from cuttings and many do not produce fruits. However, some varieties do yield seeds, which require special handling.
To propagate seeds:
- Soak seeds under cold water to remove any surrounding flesh.
- Fill a 5-6 inch pot with moist potting soil, tapping to settle it, and space seeds an inch apart.
- Cover with soil, then water until it drains from the bottom.
- Seal the pot in a plastic bag and refrigerate it, ensuring it stays moist.
- After three months, move the pot outside for spring sprouting. However, new trees may differ from the parent.
Common Issues and Solutions
Flowering cherries can face various pests and diseases. Some can be ignored, while others require attention.
Pests include tent caterpillars, peach tree borers, San Jose scale, aphids, and spider mites. Deciding on pest control can be tricky.
For tent caterpillars, a strong water blast can help, and organic fungicides like Bt can control various caterpillar types.
Common diseases include canker, silver leaf, leaf spots, dieback, leaf curl, powdery mildew, and fireblight. When in doubt, consult your local extension service.
Healthy trees that receive adequate care tend to have fewer issues. Planting pest-attracting plants nearby can help, and avoiding unnecessary pruning reduces disease spread.
Growth Rate and Height of Flowering Cherries
The growth rate of a cherry blossom tree varies by its size at purchase. Most trees flower within a year or two of planting, though retail trees may bloom upon selection.
Mail-order trees typically take an additional year to bloom, while tube-grown trees may take longer to reach flowering size.
Most flowering cherry trees grow to about 20-45ft. Some, like the compact Fuji cherry, 'Kojo-no-mai', only reach 4-6ft, making them ideal for pots. Conversely, 'Kwanzan' can grow up to 50ft, while the native black cherry can reach 125ft.
Fuji cherry, 'Kojo-no-mai' is perfect for container growth.
Best Flowering Cherry Trees for Small Gardens
When selecting a tree for a small garden, prioritize height and shape. The Fuji cherry, 'Kojo-no-mai', often resembles a flowering shrub, thriving in containers or sunny borders. 'Kiku-Shidare-Zakura' (rose pink) has a slightly taller, weeping form.
Narrow, upright varieties suitable for small spaces include 'Amanogawa' (pale pink, 15ft) and 'Spire' (pale pink with vibrant fall foliage, 25ft).
Prunus 'Kiku-Shidare-Zakura' is ideal for compact gardens.
Most Beautiful Flowering Cherry Trees
The Yoshino cherry (Prunus yedoensis) boasts elegantly arching branches and double white flowers, while 'Kwanzan' remains a beloved pink option.
For those seeking a tree with spring blooms and fine fall color, Sargent's cherry (Prunus sargentii) is a standout choice.
Additionally, some flowering Japanese cherries are grafted onto Tibetan cherry trunks, featuring beautiful peeling mahogany bark for seasonal interest.
Are Flowering Cherries Deer Resistant?
Research from the Rutgers New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station shows that flowering cherries are classified as Seldom Severely Damaged by deer, making them a good choice for deer-resistant gardens.
Why Is My Flowering Cherry Tree Oozing Sticky Gum?
Sticky orange gum on a flowering cherry tree is typically a response to bark damage, which can result from insect pests, fungal infections, or physical injury, such as damage from lawn equipment.
Alternatively, poor tree health can make it susceptible to pests and diseases, leading to gumming.
To prevent this, ensure proper planting, site preparation, irrigation, and care.
How to Purchase Flowering Cherry Trees
Flowering cherry trees are available for mail order as container-grown plants in various sizes, from tubes to large pots, typically ranging from 12 inches to 6 feet tall. Smaller trees are more affordable but take longer to mature.
They can also be found balled-and-burlapped or bare root. Containerized plants allow for more manageable aftercare, while tube trees are the most budget-friendly.
- Shop flowering cherry trees at Amazon
- Shop flowering cherry trees at Fast Growing Trees
- Shop flowering cherry trees at Forest Farm
- Shop flowering cherry trees at Monrovia
- Shop flowering cherry trees at Nature Hills
Consider adding an almond tree, a relative of the cherry, to your garden for delicate white and pink blossoms that beautifully complement your cherry trees.
