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Description
Prunus Pendula F. Ascendens is a beautiful deciduous plant that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is commonly known as Weeping Cherry and is popular for its drooping branches and stunning pink to white flowers. This plant can grow up to 20 to 30 feet tall and has a spread of 15 to 25 feet. It has a slow to moderate growth rate and can live up to 25 to 50 years. The Weeping Cherry is native to Japan, but it is commonly found in North America and Europe as well.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Prunus |
Appearance
The Weeping Cherry has a stunning appearance due to its drooping branches and beautiful flowers. It has a vase-shaped or rounded crown and can grow up to 20 to 30 feet tall. The leaves are dark green and have an oval shape with a pointed tip. They can grow up to 3 to 5 inches long and turn yellow, orange, or reddish in the fall. The flowers are pink to white and appear in clusters of 2 to 5. They bloom in early spring and create a stunning display. The fruit of the Weeping Cherry is small and black, but it is not commonly produced.
Care Guide
The Weeping Cherry is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to help you care for your plant:
- Water: Water your Weeping Cherry regularly, especially during the first few years of growth. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your Weeping Cherry in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer. Follow the instructions on the package for the correct amount.
- Soil: The Weeping Cherry prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. If your soil is not suitable, you can amend it with compost or peat moss.
- Sunlight: The Weeping Cherry prefers full sunlight but can also tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The Weeping Cherry is hardy in zones 5 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Weeping Cherry is susceptible to some pests and diseases. Here are some common ones:
- Aphids: These small insects suck the sap from the leaves and can cause them to curl and turn yellow. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause yellow and brown spots on the leaves. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Black Knot: This fungal disease causes black, knotty growths on the branches. It can be controlled by pruning infected branches and applying fungicide.
- Leaf Spot: This fungal disease causes brown spots on the leaves. It can be controlled by removing infected leaves and applying fungicide.
Habitat
The Weeping Cherry is native to Japan, but it is commonly found in North America and Europe as well. It prefers well-drained soil and full sunlight. It is commonly used as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks due to its stunning appearance.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Weeping Cherry?
A: Water your Weeping Cherry regularly, especially during the first few years of growth. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
Q: What is the best time to prune a Weeping Cherry?
A: The best time to prune a Weeping Cherry is in late winter or early spring before the new growth appears. Prune any dead, broken, or diseased branches and thin out any crossing branches.
Q: Can I grow a Weeping Cherry in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow a Weeping Cherry in a container, but make sure the container is large enough to accommodate the roots. Use a well-draining soil mix and water regularly.
Q: How long do Weeping Cherry trees live?
A: Weeping Cherry trees can live up to 25 to 50 years.
Related Plants
- Prunus Serrulata (Japanese Cherry)
- Prunus Avium (Sweet Cherry)
- Prunus Cerasus (Sour Cherry)
References
- “Prunus Pendula F. Ascendens.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 16, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b830.
- “Prunus Pendula.” Plant Finder. Accessed August 16, 2021. https://www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/128/weeping-cherry/.
- “Prunus Pendula F. Ascendens.” Plant Information Online. Accessed August 16, 2021. https://plantinfo.umn.edu/node/1392217.
