Prunus 'Autumnalis'

Prunus subhirtella Autumnalis grows as a small, wide-branched shrub or small tree with loose growth and slightly overhanging branches. This snow tree produces light pink, cupped flowers that appear from late March to early April. The special feature of this ornamental cherry is that in addition to its main flowering in April, it also shows a second weaker blossom in November or even December. Its impressive flowering makes it a magnet for the native fauna.

Also known as Winter Flowering Cherry, this tree is a very willing winter bloomer and already blooms very richly as a young plant. The individual 2.5 - 3cm wide flowers are pink in the bud but open almost white to light pink. Its green leaves gain wonderful autumn colours of yellow-orange to purple-brown red. With very fine shoots and twigs, the beautiful crown grows wide and upright.

Winter cherries like it sunny, but are generally quite undemanding. It will thrive in sandy to loamy, fresh to moist, nutrient-rich and well-drained soil. Prunus subhirtella will also tolerate most garden soils with ease.

Young, freshly planted trees should be watered regularly, especially in dry summer months. Add basic compost in spring which will provide all important nutrients. Like all ornamental cherries, it does not need regular pruning.

Prunus Autumnalis blooms in profusion even as a young plant. It is perfect for forced cultivation, in avenues and wide streets, parks, city squares, etc. Its dark gray bark makes this plant an eye-catcher in any garden.