Product description
Prunus serrula Tibetica is always a winner! In winter, it is convincing with its appealing bark colour, and in the spring with its white flowers. It is a large shrub or small tree that grows up to 5m high; often forming multi-stemmed, loose broad-crown. The crown grows more asymmetrical in maturity, dense and branched in a shrub-like fashion. The genus Prunus is one of the most diverse, and Prunus serrula has the most spectacular mahogany brown bark out of all.
Also known as the Tibetan Cherry tree, the pointy leaves of serrula are deciduous and elliptic, yellow-green when young but mature to dark green later. Its small cupped, white flowers grow in umbels in April to May. You can spot some rare, inconspicuous red miniature cherries from August. However, the highlight of this cherry is its ornamental bark with glossy-mahogany brown to copper-red colour. It smoothly peels off horizontally in paper-thin strips.
Prunus serrula prefers slightly dry to fresh, acidic to alkaline and well-drained sandy/loamy soils. Regardless of its personal preference, it is generally undemanding and tolerates all cultivated garden soils, except the heavy ones.
This cherry tree loves full sun but in cool places. It is frost hardy and wind tolerant. With medium watering, use slow-release fertiliser in the spring once.
With a Prunus, you can always find joy in your garden. It is perfect in gardens and parks, developing into impressive specimens. This ornamental tree will look stunning in high mixed bloom hedges.
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.