Contents
Description
Prunus Serrulata Taihaku or the Great White Cherry is a deciduous flowering tree that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is native to Japan and is widely cultivated for its beautiful flowers. The tree can grow up to 10-15 meters in height and has a spread of 8-10 meters. It has a broad and spreading crown with a smooth bark that is reddish-brown in color.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Prunus |
Appearance
The tree has large, oval-shaped leaves that are dark green in color and can grow up to 15cm in length. The flowers are white, large and showy, with a diameter of up to 10cm. They bloom in early spring, usually in March or April, and last for about two weeks. The fruits of Prunus Serrulata Taihaku are small and black, and are not usually eaten by humans as they are bitter and contain cyanide.
Care Guide
Prunus Serrulata Taihaku is relatively easy to care for. It prefers well-drained, moist soil that is rich in organic matter. The tree also requires full sun exposure to grow and bloom properly. It is hardy in USDA zones 5-8 and can tolerate temperatures as low as -15°C.
Water the tree regularly, especially during the growing season, to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Fertilize the tree in early spring before the blooms appear, using a balanced fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing after the blooms appear as it can damage the tree.
Common Pests & Diseases
Prunus Serrulata Taihaku is susceptible to a few pests and diseases. The most common pests that affect this tree are aphids, scale insects, and spider mites. These pests can be controlled using insecticidal soap or horticultural oils.
The most common diseases that affect Prunus Serrulata Taihaku are bacterial canker, powdery mildew, and leaf spot. These diseases can be prevented by keeping the tree healthy and well-watered. If the tree does become infected, fungicides can be used to treat the disease.
Habitat
Prunus Serrulata Taihaku is native to Japan and is commonly cultivated in gardens and parks around the world. It prefers well-drained, moist soil and full sun exposure to grow and bloom properly. The tree is hardy in USDA zones 5-8 and can tolerate temperatures as low as -15°C.
Question and Answer
Q: When does Prunus Serrulata Taihaku bloom?
A: Prunus Serrulata Taihaku blooms in early spring, usually in March or April.
Q: What are the common pests that affect Prunus Serrulata Taihaku?
A: The common pests that affect this tree are aphids, scale insects, and spider mites.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Prunus Serrulata Taihaku?
A: Prunus Serrulata Taihaku is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.
Q: How can I prevent diseases in Prunus Serrulata Taihaku?
A: Diseases in Prunus Serrulata Taihaku can be prevented by keeping the tree healthy and well-watered.
Related Plants
- Prunus Serrulata ‘Kwanzan’
- Prunus Serrulata ‘Shirotae’
- Prunus Serrulata ‘Amanogawa’
- Prunus Serrulata ‘Hokusai’
References
- “Great white cherry”. Royal Horticultural Society. Retrieved 26 October 2018.
- “Prunus serrulata ‘Taihaku'”. Plant Finder. Missouri Botanical Garden. Retrieved 26 October 2018.
- “Prunus serrulata ‘Taihaku'”. RHS Plant Selector. Retrieved 26 October 2018.
