Product description
Prunus x subhirtella 'Autumnalis Rosea' offers a unique attraction for any garden - it flowers through autumn and winter, a period when other plants are bare and uninteresting. This is must-have for a gardener who wants to create all-year round colour interest in a smaller space.
As autumn approaches, the Autumn Cherry tree bursts forth in masses of pale-pink, semi-double flowers that open up from dark pink buds. These bell-shaped delicate and frilly flowers look stunning in a snow-filled or frosty garden and will remain on the branches throughout the cold winter months. As the weather warms, the flowers turn to small, glossy fruits, attracting birds, butterflies and bees into your garden.
Autumn Cherry trees offer ovate, dark-green leaves that mature to vibrant, bold tones of orange, red and yellow before falling. They grow in most soil types but do less well in wet or shallow chalky areas. Plant in full sun to get the best colours out of the autumn show. The tree will reach heights of around 4m with a spread of around 4m in a 20 year period, making it ideal for smaller spaces. It is also perfect for urban gardens as it tolerates pollution very well.
The tree grows to a classic Japanese cheery blossom shape and requires minimal maintenance. In the early years, you can trim branches to maintain an evenly canopied shape, or leave it alone to create its own look.
Show off your gardening skills and delight guests who visit in the middle of a cold, grey winter, to find your garden bursting with a magnificent display of coconut-ice cherry blossoms!
Plant specs, care guide & tips
Key features
Specifications
When to plant
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
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Planting and period of interest times are general guidelines and may vary based on your location and conditions. For best results, consult local gardening resources.
Instructions
Top Tip
Prune your Prunus tree annually in midsummer to maintain its shape and remove any dead, damaged, or overcrowded branches. Avoid pruning during winter to minimise the risk of infection. For flowering varieties, prune immediately after blooming to encourage fresh growth and maximise next season's display. Regular maintenance will keep your tree healthy and looking its best year-round.
How to Water
Water your Prunus tree deeply after planting and consistently during its first growing season to help establish strong roots. Once established, the tree requires less frequent watering but should be watered during prolonged dry spells, especially in the summer months. Take care not to overwater, as Prunus trees dislike waterlogged conditions. Water early in the morning or late in the evening to minimise evaporation and ensure the roots can absorb the moisture effectively.
How to Plant
To plant a Prunus tree, choose a sunny or partially shaded position with fertile, well-draining soil. Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and deep enough to accommodate it comfortably. Place the tree in the hole so that the root collar sits level with the soil surface, then backfill with a mixture of soil and organic matter, firming gently around the roots. Water thoroughly and apply a mulch layer around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds, keeping the mulch a few centimetres away from the trunk to prevent rot. Stake young trees for added support in windy areas.