Flowering cherry – Prunus serrulata

Prunus serrulata is the ornamental flowering cherry tree. Native to Far Eastern Asia, it is particularly widespread in Japan, Korea, and China. Fittingly, it is one of the national symbols of Japan, considered a good luck charm for students and recent graduates, as well as a omen of a bountiful rice harvest.

It is a highly valued species for its stunning spring blossoms. While it is usually sterile, some cultivars can produce edible fruit.

There are numerous varieties available, including ‘Amanogawa’ and ‘Kanzan’ at our Garden Center. The ‘Kanzan’ variety can reach 5 to 8 meters in both height and canopy width. It features a spreading habit, with frilly, double pink flowers borne in clusters. These bloom in early spring on bare branches. When planted in groups, the blossoming spectacle is breathtaking.

The ‘Amanogawa’ variety, on the other hand, can reach 6 to 8 meters in height with a spread of 3 to 4 meters. It has a columnar, fastigiate growth habit, with upright branches arising from the base and tightly hugging the trunk. In April and May, it becomes covered in fragrant, semi-double, light pink flowers. It is typically planted as a solitary specimen.