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Tibetan cherry

How to identify Tibetan cherry (Prunus serrula)

Tibetan cherry, also known as Ornamental cherry, Birch-bark tree, Japanese flowering cherry

Tibetan cherry is distinguished by its highly ornamental, glossy, and reddish-brown bark that peels away in translucent sheets, presenting a polished appearance. It bears lance-shaped leaves that transition through a warm spectrum of color throughout the year. In spring, delicate white flowers emerge, contributing to its aesthetic appeal. This plant typically reaches heights of 20-30 feet (6-9 meters) with a rounded canopy, and it thrives in well-drained soils, displaying pronounced cold hardiness characteristic of zones 5-6.

Lifespan

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type

Plant Type: Tree

Leaf Type

Leaf Type: Deciduous

Quickly Identify Tibetan cherry

1

Smooth, glossy bark peels in translucent sheets with a polished appearance.

2

Lance-shaped leaves transition in warm colors, serrated margins, glossy texture.

3

Delicate white flowers form charming umbels, emit subtle fragrance.

4

Small, bright red berries with smooth, glossy texture entice wildlife.

5

Fruit is around 0.5 inches in diameter, spherical to slightly elongated shape.

Tibetan cherryTibetan cherryTibetan cherryTibetan cherryTibetan cherry

Detailed Traits of Tibetan cherry

Leaf Features

The leaves of tibetan cherry are alternate, simple, and measure between 2 to 4 inches (5 to 10 cm) in length. They are characterized by their serrated margins, which give a finely toothed appearance. The leaves are generally lanceolate or ovate in shape, with a glossy green texture. The underside is paler with a visible vein pattern. These leaves are crucial identifiers with their distinct serrations and lance-shaped form.

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Flower Features

The flowers of tibetan cherry appear singly or in clusters of 2-4, forming charming umbels in late spring. Each delicate blossom measures approximately 0.6 inches (1.5 cm) in diameter. The petals are pristine white, creating a lovely contrast against the green foliage. The flowers emit a subtle fragrance, attracting pollinators and adding to their appeal. Their simple yet elegant arrangement and small size are key identifiers for this species.

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Fruit Features

The fruit of tibetan cherry is a small, distinctive berry measuring around 0.5 inches in diameter. It exhibits a bright red hue when mature, with a smooth and slightly glossy texture. This fruit may have a somewhat spherical to slightly elongated shape. Not typically consumed by humans, its primary role is to entice birds and other wildlife, which aid in seed dispersal. While it can catch the eye of a passerby, caution should be exercised as the fruit is not commonly regarded as edible. The vivid coloration aides in the fruit's visibility against the foliage, which can be helpful for identifying the species.

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Key Facts About Tibetan cherry

Attributes of Tibetan cherry
Lifespan
Perennial
Plant Type
Tree
Plant Height
10 m
Spread
10 m
Leaf Color
Green
Yellow
Flower Size
2.5 cm
Leaf type
Deciduous
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Scientific Classification of Tibetan cherry

Family
Rose
Icon allow
Genus
Prunus
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Species
Tibetan cherry (Prunus serrula)
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Distribution Map of Tibetan cherry

Tibetan cherry, natively found in East Asia, is renowned for its attractive bark and ornamental qualities. Although indigenous to this broad region, tibetan cherry has been cultivated in various temperate zones across the globe, where it flourishes in parks and gardens. This introduction outside its native range displays the plant's adaptability and horticultural appeal.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Potentially invasive
Exotic
No species reported
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