Japanese cherry - Prunus serrulata (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images, Toxic)

Japanese cherry

Also known as: Japanese flowering cherry, Hill cherry, Sakura

The japanese cherry tradition, called Hanami, where people have picnics and outdoor parties under these trees, is a popular attraction. The excellent spring colors of the Prunus serrulata tree attract butterflies like the Eastern Tiger Swallowtail. Its showy pink and white flowers are in full bloom in early to mid-spring, and some are fragrant.

Scientific classification

Species

Japanese cherry (Prunus serrulata)

Roses, elms, figs, and allies

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Toxic to Human & Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Tree

Plant Type

Spring

Bloom Time

Summer

Harvest Time

4 m to 16 m

Plant Height

4.5 m to 6 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2 cm to 3 cm

Flower Size

Black

Fruit Color

White, Pink

Flower Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring

Growth Season

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of Japanese cherry

Distribution of Japanese cherry

Distribution Map

The native range of japanese cherry is in Asia, including China and Korea, where this plant can be found growing on mountain slopes. This popular ornamental has a variety of cultivars that have been planted widely throughout the world.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Forest

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

The various non-fruiting cultivars of japanese cherry trees are what are commonly grown for their splendid display of white or pink flowers in the spring. Their compact size and lush flowering make them extremely popular as specimen pieces in home and public gardens, and are absolutely essential in Japanese-style gardens. Typically, japanese cherry trees are planted together to make an even more spectacular show, but it also works well with dandelion, chamomile, and lupine.

Symbolism

Love, Divination, birth, death, heroism, violence, life is short and full of change

Interesting Facts

Japanese cherry is regarded as a symbol of beauty, but also of mortality. Because its blooms are short-lived, they make a perfect metaphor for the fleeting, transient nature of human life. In Japan, people gather for cherry blossom parties during blooming time, as part of a tradition that's at least 1,000 years old.

Name Story

Japanese flowering cherry: When it comes to Japanese specialty, most people can relate to the mountain full of cherry blossoms similar to the actual scenes in the comics. Japan is famous for its cherry blossoms known as the Prunus serrulata. It carries a rich symbolic significance for Japan and it is the most represented species in Japan. Nowadays, cherry blossoms are linked to Japan which is also the reason it is often called the Japanese flowering cherry.

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Toxicity

Japanese cherry contains toxic cyanogens in its leaves, seeds, and twigs, causing severe symptoms if ingested. These include weakness, shortness of breath, dilated pupils, elevated heart rate, loss of consciousness, and potentially death. Accidental ingestion of seeds is common when consuming the fruits.

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Quickly Identify Japanese cherry

Smooth reddish-brown bark with distinct horizontal lenticels.

Alternate lanceolate to ovate leaves with serrated edges.

Clusters of double white flowers in trios or quintets.

Small round black drupes in late summer.

Distinctive red-brown twigs, smooth with large buds.

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Care Guide for Japanese cherry

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Japanese cherry thrives in temperate climates and is moderately drought-tolerant. It prefers well-drained conditions and should be watered every 1-2 weeks, reflecting natural rainfall. Water needs decrease during dormancy in winter as japanese cherry is a deciduous tree showcasing seasonal changes.

Fertilize: Japanese cherry thrives with balanced nutrition, particularly a 10-10-10 N-P-K fertilizer, applied annually in spring. Start with a lower dose for young plants, increasing as they mature. Avoid fertilizing in late summer or fall to protect from frost, and monitor soil moisture to prevent root burn.

Pruning: Japanese cherry, renowned for its beautiful spring flowers, thrives with early spring pruning. Start by removing dead branches and overcrowded stems to enhance air circulation. Trim up to one-third of older branches to stimulate new growth, ensuring optimal health and a vibrant bloom display.

Propagation: Japanese cherry is propagated by softwood cuttings in late spring. Use a rooting hormone and well-draining soil, ensuring high humidity and stable temperatures for root development. Once rooted, transplant cuttings to individual pots for stronger growth before planting in the garden.

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Images of Japanese cherry

Distribution of Japanese cherry

Culture

Cultivars

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Japanese cherry

Care Guide for Japanese cherry

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