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Description
Prunus Speciosa, commonly known as Oshima cherry or Japanese mountain cherry, is a deciduous tree native to Japan. It belongs to the Rosaceae family and is known for its beautiful pink flowers that bloom in early spring. The tree grows up to 10 meters in height and has a rounded shape with a dense canopy. The leaves are dark green and glossy, and turn yellow or red in the fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Prunus |
Appearance
The Prunus Speciosa tree has a smooth, gray bark that peels off in patches. Its branches are slender and slightly drooping, forming a natural umbrella shape. The tree is covered with pink flowers that have five petals and bloom in clusters in early spring. The flowers are followed by small red fruit that ripen in late summer. The leaves are oval-shaped, pointed, and serrated, with a glossy dark green color that turns yellow or red in the fall.
Care Guide
The Prunus Speciosa tree requires regular watering during the growing season, especially during hot and dry weather. It prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter, and should be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer in early spring. The tree prefers full sun, but can tolerate some shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 8, and should be protected from frost and extreme cold.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Prunus Speciosa tree is susceptible to various pests and diseases, including aphids, scale insects, tent caterpillars, powdery mildew, and leaf spot. Aphids and scale insects can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Tent caterpillars can be removed by hand or treated with Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt). Powdery mildew and leaf spot can be prevented by practicing good sanitation and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
The Prunus Speciosa tree is native to Japan, where it grows in mountainous regions and along riverbanks. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and full sun, but can tolerate some shade. The tree is widely cultivated as an ornamental tree in parks and gardens, and has been introduced to other parts of the world, including North America and Europe.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the blooming season for Prunus Speciosa?
A: Prunus Speciosa blooms in early spring.
Q: How tall can Prunus Speciosa grow?
A: Prunus Speciosa can grow up to 10 meters in height.
Q: How do you care for Prunus Speciosa?
A: Prunus Speciosa requires regular watering, well-draining soil, full sun, and a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Where is Prunus Speciosa native to?
A: Prunus Speciosa is native to Japan.
Related Plants
- Prunus avium
- Prunus serrulata
- Prunus virginiana
- Prunus yedoensis
References
- “Prunus speciosa.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed June 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280610&isprofile=0&basic=prunus%20speciosa.
- “Prunus speciosa.” Plant Database. Accessed June 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=prsp2.
- “Prunus speciosa.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed June 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/9927/Prunus-speciosa/Details.
