Contents
Description
Prunus Lannesiana, also known as the Japanese Bird Cherry, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to Japan, Korea, and China. It is a popular ornamental plant due to its showy pink or white flowers that bloom in late spring. The leaves are dark green and glossy, turning yellow or red in fall. The fruit is a small black cherry that is not typically consumed by humans.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Prunus |
Appearance
Prunus Lannesiana can grow up to 20 feet tall and 15 feet wide. The bark is dark brown and smooth, becoming slightly rough with age. The branches are slender and upright, forming a dense, rounded crown. The flowers are produced in clusters of 5 to 7 and are typically pink, although white forms also exist. The fruit is a small black cherry that ripens in late summer. The leaves are oval-shaped with serrated edges and can grow up to 4 inches long.
Care Guide
Prunus Lannesiana prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. It should be watered regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. Fertilizer can be applied in early spring and again in late summer. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring to remove dead or damaged branches and to shape the plant. Prunus Lannesiana can tolerate full sun to partial shade and is hardy in USDA Zones 5 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Prunus Lannesiana can be susceptible to various pests and diseases, including aphids, scale insects, and powdery mildew. Regular inspection and treatment with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil can help prevent these issues. Fungal diseases such as leaf spot and canker can also affect the plant, and infected branches should be promptly removed.
Habitat
Prunus Lannesiana is native to Japan, Korea, and China, where it grows in forest margins, along streams, and on hillsides. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate a range of temperatures, from hot summers to cold winters.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I eat the fruit of Prunus Lannesiana?
A: While the fruit is technically edible, it is not typically consumed by humans due to its small size and lack of flavor.
Q: How often should I water my Prunus Lannesiana?
A: Prunus Lannesiana should be watered regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. However, be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.
Q: When is the best time to prune Prunus Lannesiana?
A: Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Q: Can Prunus Lannesiana grow in containers?
A: While it is possible to grow Prunus Lannesiana in containers, it may not thrive as well as it would in the ground. Make sure the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system and provide adequate drainage.
Related Plants
- Prunus Serrulata (Japanese Cherry)
- Prunus Persica (Peach)
- Prunus Avium (Sweet Cherry)
- Prunus Virginiana (Chokecherry)
References
- “Prunus lannesiana.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b352.
- “Prunus lannesiana.” PlantFiles, Dave’s Garden, davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/1437/.
- “Prunus lannesiana.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/13855/Prunus-lannesiana/Details.
