If I had to say which tree of Asian origin has become the most popular in recent times, apart from the japanese mapleI would certainly say Prunus serrulata. Why? Because it is a plant that is beautiful all year round, yes, even in winter when it has no leaves.
It produces flowers whose beauty makes any garden or patio look spectacular, and that's not to mention the color change that its leaves undergo, turning from spring green to orange-red in autumn.
What is the origin and characteristics of the Prunus serrulata?
In this deciduous tree (lose leaf in winter) native to Japan, Korea, and China, popularly called Japanese cherry, Japanese flowering cherry, blossom cherry, Oriental cherry, and East Asian cherry. Although its most used scientific name and by which it is best known is Prunus serrulata, is also accepted Cerasus serrulata var. 'serrulata' as:
- Prunus: is the genus to which it belongs.
- Cerasus: the subgenus.
- serrulata: the variety.
Speaking of its characteristics, you have to know that reaches a height of about 10 meters, with a more or less straight trunk (it can lean over the years) and a dense, almost hemispherical crown. The leaves are alternate, ovate-lanceolate in shape, have a serrated margin and are 5-13cm long by 2,5-6,5cm wide.
Flowers bloom in spring, in clusters while leaves emerge, and are white to pink in color. The fruit is a black, globose drupe 8 to 10mm in diameter.
What uses is it given?
Image from Wikimedia/Line1
The Japanese cherry tree is used as ornamental tree. It is a wonderful plant that can be kept as an isolated specimen, in groups or alignments. In addition, it can be worked as a bonsai.
What are the care of the Prunus serrulata?
If you dare to acquire one, it is important that you bear in mind that must be placed outside, in full sun or in a place where it receives a minimum of 5 hours of direct light. It does not have invasive roots, but like any self-respecting plant it needs its space, so I do not advise you to plant it at a distance of less than 5 meters from walls, walls, etc.
The soil must be rich in organic matter, preferably slightly acidic (pH 5-6), although it tolerates limestone. Of course, in any case, that land has to be able to quickly absorb and filter the water, since the Japanese cherry tree does not tolerate waterlogging. For this same reason, if you want to have it in a pot, it is advisable to use substrates such as akadama mixed with 30% kiryuzuna, or universal substrate mixed with 40% perlite.
Moreover, watering will be moderate to frequent. In principle and depending on the weather, it will be watered an average of 4 times a week in summer, and about 2 a week the rest of the year. During the warm season it is highly recommended to fertilize it with organic fertilizers, such as guano or mulch, for example.
Resists frosts down to -18ºC, but it cannot live in tropical climates.