Japanese Flowering Cherry
Prunus serrulata · Deciduous Broadleaf Hardwood
Plant Family
Rosaceae
Tree Category
Ornamental Flowering Tree
Variety / Cultivar
Likely 'Kwanzan' or 'Kanzan'
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 5-8; tolerates temperatures down to -10°F to -20°F depending on variety.
About This Tree
A medium-sized deciduous tree with a vase-shaped to spreading rounded habit. Known for its prolific, often double-petaled pink flowers that bloom concurrently with or just before bronze-tinted new foliage emerge.
Leaf Characteristics
Leaves are simple, ovate to lanceolate, roughly 3-5 inches long with serrated margins (often double-serrated), appearing bronzy-green when young and turning dark green in summer.
Bark Characteristics
Smooth, grayish-brown bark featuring prominent horizontal lenticels (breathing pores); becomes more fissured and darker with age, as seen in the mature specimen pictured.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to Japan, China, and Korea; widely adapted to temperate regions globally.
Growing Season
Leafs out in mid-spring; flowers late March to April; fruits (if pollination occurs) in early summer; enters dormancy in late autumn after leaf drop.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Requires Full Sun for best blooming; needs regular moderate watering and well-drained soil. Semi-drought tolerant once established but prefers consistent moisture.
Mature Size
Reaches 25-35 feet in height and spread; moderate growth rate; typical lifespan of 15-25 years due to susceptibility to pests/diseases.
Special Characteristics
Exceptional spring floral display; features yellowish-bronze to orange fall color; historically significant in Japanese culture (Sakura).
Wildlife & Ecology
Provides nectar for pollinators including bees and butterflies; provides nesting sites for birds; small drupes (if produced) are consumed by songbirds and small mammals.