Prunus ×yedoensis

Prunus ×yedoensis, commonly known as the Yoshino cherry, is a hybrid cherry of between Prunus speciosa as father plant and Prunus pendula f. ascendens as mother. It is a small, deciduous tree native to Japan that is widely cultivated for its attractive, pale pink flowers.

Description

The Yoshino cherry grows to a height of 5–12 m. The leaves are alternately arranged, 6–15 cm long and 4–7 cm broad, with a serrated margin. The flowers are produced in clusters of five to six together in spring, each flower 3–3.5 cm diameter, with five white or pale pink petals. The fruit is a small black cherry about 1 cm diameter.

Cultivation and uses

Prunus ×yedoensis is widely grown as an ornamental tree, both in its native Japan and throughout the temperate regions of the world. Its early flowering, in some years as early as late January, makes it a popular symbol of spring. The flowers are slightly fragrant. The fruit, which is produced in small quantities, is edible but not particularly tasty.

Varieties

There are several varieties of Prunus ×yedoensis, including 'Akebono', 'Ivensii', and 'Shidare-Yoshino'. These differ in flower color, from white to deep pink, and in other characteristics such as growth habit and flowering time.

Cultural significance

In Japan, the Yoshino cherry has a special cultural significance. It is the most commonly planted cherry tree in the cherry blossom viewing (hanami) tradition, and its flowers are often used in the Japanese spring festival.

See also

• Cherry blossom
• Prunus speciosa
• Prunus pendula

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