Prunus ‘Kanzan’ (Japanese Flowering Cherry)

Regarded as one of the most ornamental of the flowering cherries, Prunus ‘Kanzan’ is a striking deciduous tree with several seasons of interest. In spring, it produces an amazing profusion of rich pink double flowers, 2.5 in. wide (6 cm), held in pendant clusters. They appear before the leaves unfold. Each blossom is packed with 20-30 petals. Since ‘Kanzan’ is sterile, fruit will not follow them. Reddish-copper as they emerge, the serrate, ovate leaves mature to dark green in summer, forming a dense canopy casting shade below. In fall, they turn various shades of orange and bronze before dropping. A graceful ornamental tree with an upright, vase-shaped habit, which can be planted in containers, along walks and streets, and also be used as a bonsai specimen.

• Typically reaches 25-30 ft. in height and spread (7-9 m).
• Performs best in full sun or light shade in moist, fertile, well-drained, sandy, or clay loams. Tolerates heat and humidity and dry soils once established.
• Perfect choice as a single specimen plant, mass plantings, or lawns.
• May be short-lived (15 to 25 years). Susceptible to many pest and disease issues.
• Prune in midsummer if silver leaf is an issue
• Propagate by chip budding or grafting, although softwood cuttings in early summer with bottom heat can be successful