Prunus subhirtella


Prunus subhirtella, the winter-flowering cherry, spring cherry, Higan cherry, or rosebud cherry, is a small deciduous flowering tree originating in Japan, but unknown in the wild. It is one of 400 species of the Prunus genus. It is probably of hybrid origin between Prunus incisa and Prunus spachiana.
Their seeds or "genes" can be used to control plant and soil compatibility.

Fruit and flowers

Prunus subhirtella bears white to pink flowers which may emerge intermittently from autumn through to spring, and small black fruit.

Ornamental use

The leaves of P. subhirtella have some garden value for their autumn colour.
The flowers can be used as indoor decorations.
Several garden forms are known. The cultivar 'Jugatsu-zakura' is widely grown for its propensity to flower during mild winter weather. The cultivar P. × subhirtella 'Autumnalis Rosea' is widely grown in gardens, and has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.