Winter Flowering Cherry, Higan Cherry
prunus subhirtella
Also known as: ["Spring Cherry","East Asian Flowering Cherry"]
Overview
A deciduous tree native to East Asia, known for its early spring blossoms and ornamental value.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Genus: | Prunus |
| Botanical Name: | Prunus subhirtella |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden, preferably in a location with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–25–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter. Can tolerate sandy or clay soils if amended.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering; light pruning can be done in late winter if needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if necessary to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to full sun gradually to prevent leaf scorch. Place in a location sheltered from harsh afternoon sun if needed, especially in hot climates.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; provide shade during extreme heat; ensure unobstructed sunlight exposure.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep root growth; avoid waterlogging; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate fertility
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure good aeration; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 5–8. Prefers cool winters and moderate summers. Ideal range: 32–75°F (0–24°C).
Protect from frost; avoid placing near heat sources; monitor temperature fluctuations during seasonal changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Avoid over-fertilizing, which can damage roots; fertilize only during active growth; water before applying fertilizer.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood cuttings taken in early summer or layering.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Early summer when new growth is flexible but mature enough to root.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy parent plant material; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of branches; heading back to shape; removal of crossing or crowded branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or diseased wood, and encourage flowering. Best done after flowering to avoid removing buds.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, saw (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune at correct time; make clean cuts; remove dead/diseased wood; shape as needed.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Young plants may need repotting annually.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; avoid wetting foliage; ensure proper drainage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the trunk, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Apply until water begins to drain from the bottom, then stop to prevent waterlogging. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during spring and summer, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to improve structure and fertility; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, wilting, or browning of leaves in extreme heat or cold; delayed flowering in unseasonable temperatures.
Cold Stress
Leaves may curl or drop; buds may fail to open; branches can become brittle and prone to breakage.
Solution: Mulch around the base to insulate roots; protect from harsh winds; avoid watering before freezing temperatures.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or premature leaf drop; reduced flowering and fruit set.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use appropriate fertilizer; apply at correct time; follow dilution instructions; water after application.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring before new growth emerges. Apply again after flowering. Dilute liquid fertilizers to half-strength if used monthly during growing season.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly sensitive to cyanogenic glycosides, which can cause rapid cyanide poisoning. The toxic effects can lead to severe metabolic acidosis, respiratory failure, and neurological damage.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe cyanogenic glycosides in Prunus subhirtella can cause cyanide poisoning in dogs, leading to severe metabolic and respiratory distress. The toxic compounds interfere with cellular respiration, causing systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicContains cyanogenic glycosides which can release cyanide upon ingestion, leading to poisoning. The physiological impact includes respiratory distress, cardiovascular effects, and potential neurological damage.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When does Prunus subhirtella bloom?
A: It typically blooms in early spring, often before its leaves emerge.
Q: Is Prunus subhirtella suitable for small gardens?
A: Yes, it can be pruned to maintain a smaller size, making it suitable for smaller spaces.
Q: Are the seeds of Prunus subhirtella toxic?
A: Yes, the seeds contain cyanogenic glycosides and are mildly toxic if ingested.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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