Flowering Cherry
Prunus serrulata
The 3,000+ flowering cherry trees gifted from Japan to Washington DC in 1912 still bloom around the Tidal Basin every spring — and the genetic identity of those original trees has been preserved through cuttings for 110+ years.
How to care for flowering cherry
Plant in well-drained loam — cherry hates wet feet and is short-lived (30-50 years) where drainage is poor. Don't prune in spring (sap-flow attracts borers); prune in late summer instead. Mulch 3 inches deep but pull back from trunk.
Garden uses & design ideas
Best garden use
Treat it as a long-term anchor: place it first, then design smaller beds and seating areas around its mature canopy.
Pair it with
Tulip, Daffodil, Hostas make easy companion choices because they share similar light, water, or visual texture needs.
Layout tip
Match it with full sun exposure, place it in a moderate-water bed where soil can stay evenly damp but not soggy, and check USDA zones 5-8 before planting. Use the garden planner to test spacing around its mature size: 15-25 ft tall and wide.
Gardener note — Double-check local invasive, edible, and toxicity guidance with your county extension office before planting around pets, children, or natural areas.
Companion plants
Flowering Cherry grows well alongside these — similar light, water, and texture needs.
Common pests & problems
Frequently asked about flowering cherry
What USDA zones does Flowering Cherry grow in?+
Flowering Cherry is hardy in USDA zones 5-8. Outside these zones, it can usually be grown indoors or as a seasonal annual.
How much sun does Flowering Cherry need?+
Flowering Cherry prefers full sun. Place it where it gets that light most of the day for best growth and flowering.
How often should I water Flowering Cherry?+
Flowering Cherry has moderate water needs. Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy. Plant in well-drained loam — cherry hates wet feet and is short-lived (30-50 years) where drainage is poor. Don't prune in spring (sap-flow attracts borers); prune in late summer instead. Mulch 3 inches deep but pull back from trunk.
How big does Flowering Cherry get?+
Flowering Cherry reaches a mature size of 15-25 ft tall and wide. Growth rate is moderate, so plan spacing accordingly when planting.
What plants grow well with Flowering Cherry?+
Flowering Cherry pairs well with Tulip, Daffodil, Hostas, Azalea. These companions share similar care requirements and don't compete aggressively for resources.
What pests affect Flowering Cherry?+
Common Flowering Cherry problems include black knot fungus; borers; tent caterpillars. Catching early signs in routine inspection prevents most damage.
When does Flowering Cherry bloom?+
Flowering Cherry blooms in early to mid spring (10-14 days) in pink, white, double-pink. Deadheading spent flowers (where applicable) often encourages a longer bloom window.
Design a garden with flowering cherry in minutes
Drag plants into a 3D space, walk through it, or upload a photo and let AI redesign it. Test spacing around its mature size before you plant.
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