Product description
Prunus 'Taihaku' originated from Japan and sadly became extinct. A single variety was found many years later in a home garden in Sussex and this lovely tree was rescued, replanted and lives on to create a wonderful sight in a modern garden!
The Great White Cherry Tree, as the name implies is a large and imposing tree, best suited to medium and large sized gardens. It is also ideal for parklands, public spaces, long avenues and large garden exhibition centres.
Your Prunus 'Taihaku' offers clusters of long-stalked, single icy-white flowers in spring that emerge from pink buds. The flowers are larger than those found on other Cherry trees and measure almost 5cm across. Purple-bronze leaves appear with the flowers in spring, creating an attractive contrast before turning to a mid-green in summer. In autumn, the show continues with a fiery display of vibrant yellow and orange before the leaves finally fall in winter.
This tree has a vigorous, spreading, rounded habit and will reach heights of 7m and spreads of 8m in a 20 year period. It is fully hardy and can be planted in full sun. Prunus 'Taihaku' is tolerant of most soil types, apart from very wet or chalky areas. It is also ideal for urban gardens as it is tolerant of pollution.
If you have a larger garden, do not hesitate to plant one or more beautiful Great White Cherry Trees. They will become a special focal point as your garden matures, offering a display of stunning large white flowers.
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.