Product description
The ornamental cherry 'Spire' is a slow-growing small deciduous tree, which initially grows narrow, almost columnar and whose trunk ends at the beginning of the crown. The dense branches of Prunus hillier Spire that grow upright form a narrow-conical crown. The tree shines wit wonderful colour effects in summer and autumn. It is a very appealing winter hardy cherry which demands little space for thriving.
The leaves of Prunus Spire appear alternate on the branches, are ovate pointed and double-sawn at the edge. The autumn colour of the foliage is absolutely worth mentioning. The young transparent leaves emerge as green and turn crimson to fiery red in autumn. It does bear fruits but they are inconspicuous and without ornamental value. The clusters of pink flowers are often visited by bees during lunchtime.
Prunus Spire prefers fresh, nutrient-rich, moderately moist soils that are neutral to strongly alkaline (or calcareous). However, it can also thrive on normal garden soils. In fact, this tree can survive on barren sandy ground. It does like warmth, so find a full sunny spot for it.
It is absolutely frost hardy and once planted, it hardly needs any further care. A regular pruning is not necessary. You can see how undemanding and a low maintenance tree it is.
Prunus Spire can be very slow-growing, taking more than 30 years to reach its full height. It is often planted in inner-city areas or small gardens since it occupies lesser space. Use it in single planting or group planting in public gardens, parks, residential areas, clear landscape, etc.
Plant specs, care guide & tips
Key features
Specifications
When to plant
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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.