

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.
Smooth, glossy bark peels in translucent sheets with a polished appearance.
Lance-shaped leaves transition in warm colors, serrated margins, glossy texture.
Delicate white flowers form charming umbels, emit subtle fragrance.
Small, bright red berries with smooth, glossy texture entice wildlife.
Fruit is around 0.5 inches in diameter, spherical to slightly elongated shape.
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.
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.
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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Scientific Classification of Tibetan cherry