Winter-flowering cherry
Prunus subhirtella · Rosaceae
⚠️ Feuilles, tiges et noyaux ou graines mâchés contiennent des glycosides cyanogènes ; le risque dépend de la partie et de la quantité ingérées. Pour les espèces fruitières, la chair mûre dénoyautée est généralement sans danger.
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around winter-flowering cherry and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Scientific name
- Prunus subhirtella
- Family
- Rosaceae
- Form
- Tree
- Adult height
- 5 to 6 meters
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- February to March
- Hardiness
- Excellent (-15 to -20°C)
- Origin
- Japan
✓ Taxonomy verifiedSource: AI estimate · hardiness: reliability medium.
Expert tips
The key tip
Prunus subhirtella 'Autumnalis' (the most well-known variety) blooms in February and also sporadically in autumn: it loves very sunny locations with well-draining soil.
The common mistake
People confuse it with standard ornamental Prunus and expect a massive spring bloom.
The pro's trick
Very light pruning in March (just remove crossing branches) is enough: this Prunus doesn't handle heavy work well and loses its natural shape.
Care
Light exposure
Place your Japanese cherry tree in full sun for generous flowering and harmonious development. It tolerates light partial shade but prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Good light also promotes flower coloration and autumn foliage color.
Watering
Water regularly during the first year after planting to establish a good root system. Once established, the Japanese cherry tree resists summer drought well but appreciates fresh soil during the growing season. During prolonged hot periods, water without letting the soil dry out completely.
Soil
This cherry tree adapts to most soils but prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. Enrich the planting hole with mature compost and ensure water doesn't stagnate, particularly in winter. A mulch at the base protects the roots and maintains moisture.
Pruning and shaping
Prune lightly after flowering (April-May) to remove dead or poorly oriented branches. The Japanese cherry tree doesn't require drastic pruning; gentle intervention is enough to maintain a balanced shape. Avoid pruning in autumn to avoid reducing spring flowering.
Fertilizer
Apply balanced or specialized flowering tree fertilizer in early spring, before flowering. A moderate annual application will suffice after the first year. In rich soil, no additional feeding is necessary.
Pests and diseases
The Japanese cherry tree is generally robust. Watch for possible mealybugs or aphids in spring and eliminate them by water spray or mild treatment. Maintain good air circulation and adequate drainage to prevent fungi. Chemical treatments are rarely necessary in a well-maintained specimen.
Did you know?
The Japanese cherry tree (Prunus subhirtella) is famous in Japan where it symbolizes the ephemeral beauty of life. Its varieties such as 'Autumnalis' offer the exceptional feature of flowering twice a year: a first discreet wave in autumn and spectacular spring flowering. This tree embodies the Zen philosophy of the present moment, admired during traditional hanami ceremonies.
Where to buy it
Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.