Ornamental Cherry

Prunus serrulata

Ornamental Cherry trees are the quintessence of spring — cascading clouds of pink or white blossoms that make neighborhoods look like they belong in a painting. 'Yoshino' lines the Tidal Basin in DC; 'Kwanzan' has dramatic double pink flowers; 'Okame' blooms earliest with deep pink. Short-lived but absolutely worth every year of beauty.

Hardiness Zones

5-8

Sunlight

Full Sun

Water Needs

Moderate

Maintenance

Low

Mature Size

15-25 ft H × 15-25 ft W

Growth Rate

Moderate

Bloom Season

Spring

Bloom Color

Pink, White (double or single blooms)

Care Guide

Plant in full sun with well-drained soil. Water regularly — they're not drought tolerant. Minimal pruning — remove crossing branches in late winter. Relatively short-lived (20-25 years). Susceptible to borers and fungal issues. Don't damage bark with mowers or trimmers.

Landscape Uses

Specimen treeSpring focal pointPatio treeDriveway liningSmall yards

Best Growing Regions

northeastmidwestwestsoutheast

Great Companion Plants

AzaleaRhododendron spp.

Dogwood

HostaHosta spp.

Japanese MapleAcer palmatum

DaffodilNarcissus spp.

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