Product description
Prunus 'Shirotae' (aka Prunus 'Mount Fuji') makes a delightful display in a garden its with masses of semi-double snowy white flowers in April and May. The flowers are honey-scented and attract birds, butterflies and bees into your garden, bringing with them movement and sound. The beautiful white blooms are cup-shaped and create a wonderful contrast against the light green spring foliage. As the weather warms, the leaves turn to a deeper mid-green and finally to vibrant red and orange hues in autumn.
If you are looking for a different and classical Japanese ornamental shape to uplift your garden, the Prunus 'Shirotae' has a wide spreading habit with pendulous branches that form a unique flat-topped canopy. The branches can droop, sometimes as far as touching the ground.
You can expect this Flowering Cherry tree to attain heights of around 3.5m and a spread of 5m within a 20 year period. It is tolerant of most soil types but avoid very wet or shallow chalky areas. Plant in full sun where possible.
Use this magnificent Flowering Cherry tree to create interest in a smaller garden. The flat top and drooping shape is ideal to overhang a garden hide-sway or provide shade cover for a scenic garden bench. Your Mount Fuji tree requires very little maintenance. If you want to control the drooping branches, some light pruning can be done after flowering and before the new shoots appear.
If you are searching for a unique gift idea for a loved one, offering a tree is a truly sentimental idea and the Prunus 'Shirofugen' is the perfect choice.
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.