PRUNUS S. KIKU-S-SAKURA

Introducing Prunus serrulata 'Kiku-shidare-zakura'

Prunus serrulata 'Kiku-shidare-zakura' is a stunning ornamental cherry tree known for its elegant weeping habit and breathtaking display of double pink blossoms in spring. Commonly referred to as the Weeping Cherry 'Cheal's', this Japanese flowering cherry is highly prized for its compact size, cascading branches, and fluffy pom-pom-like flowers that appear in abundance throughout April and May.

This variety is ideal for small gardens, courtyards, or as a striking feature in mixed borders. Its slow-growing, rounded shape and eye-catching spring blooms make it a popular choice for gardeners seeking long-lasting visual impact in a limited space.

Planting and Positioning

To ensure healthy establishment and long-term beauty, it’s important to plant Prunus 'Kiku-shidare-zakura' in a suitable location with well-prepared soil.

• Preferred Location:

  • Best planted in full sun for the most prolific flowering.

  • Tolerates light shade, though flower production may be reduced.

  • Requires a sheltered site to protect the delicate blooms from strong winds and late frosts.

• Soil Requirements:

  • Thrives in well-drained, fertile soil.

  • Prefers neutral to slightly acidic soil but is generally tolerant of a range of conditions.

  • Avoid waterlogged or overly compacted soils.

• Planting Tips:

  • Dig a planting hole twice as wide as the root ball and at the same depth.

  • Incorporate organic compost to enrich the planting area.

  • Water thoroughly after planting and add a mulch layer around the base, keeping it clear of the trunk.

• Container Growing:

  • Can be grown in large containers if well-maintained.

  • Use a quality loam-based compost and ensure the pot has excellent drainage.

  • Container trees require more frequent watering and feeding.

General Care and Maintenance

Once established, 'Kiku-shidare-zakura' requires minimal care beyond seasonal maintenance and monitoring for pests and diseases.

• Watering:

  • Water regularly in the first year to establish a strong root system.

  • Once established, water during extended dry periods, especially in summer.

  • Container-grown trees need more frequent watering.

• Feeding:

  • Apply a balanced slow-release fertiliser in early spring.

  • Supplement with a mulch of well-rotted compost or manure to support healthy growth and flowering.

• Pruning:

  • Minimal pruning required—best done in late summer to avoid the risk of silver leaf disease.

  • Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches.

  • Light shaping may be done to maintain the weeping form, but avoid heavy pruning.

• Mulching:

  • Maintain a mulch layer around the base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

  • Keep mulch a few centimetres away from the trunk to prevent rot.

• Pests and Diseases:

  • Generally robust, but may be susceptible to aphids, caterpillars, or cherry leaf spot.

  • Ensure good air circulation around the plant to reduce fungal issues.

  • Avoid winter pruning to prevent silver leaf disease.

Seasonal Interest and Garden Use

Prunus 'Kiku-shidare-zakura' offers exceptional ornamental value, particularly in spring, when its weeping form is adorned with a cascade of vibrant blossoms.

• Spring Display:

  • Masses of deep pink, double flowers appear in April to May.

  • The flowers cover the bare weeping branches before the foliage emerges.

  • One of the most impressive spring-flowering trees available for smaller gardens.

• Foliage and Autumn Interest:

  • Foliage is a fresh green in summer, turning shades of bronze and gold in autumn.

  • Though mainly grown for its spring interest, it provides multi-season appeal.

• Size and Habit:

  • A small, slow-growing tree with a naturally weeping shape.

  • Typically reaches 2–3 metres in height and spread after 10–15 years.

  • Ideal as a specimen tree in lawns, front gardens, or Japanese-themed landscapes.

• Wildlife Benefits:

  • Early spring flowers provide an important source of nectar for bees and pollinators.

Prunus serrulata 'Kiku-shidare-zakura' is a charming, manageable ornamental tree that offers a powerful seasonal display without demanding high maintenance. Perfect for adding elegance and impact to gardens of all sizes

• Size
  1/2 STD

We currently only deliver within the island of Ireland, other countries can be quoted for by contacting [email protected] or via telephone on 06964084
 

Standard Delivery is FREE on orders over €250*

All standard deliveries will be completed within 5-7 working days via Fastway Couriers, any delay to this delivery time, the customer will be notified by One of our staff.

The in-Store delivery charge will vary compared with online, in-store delivery charge is done on a case by case basis. 

* Only mainland Ireland addresses qualify for free delivery.
 

Live Plants Delivery

Our live plants are packed with care and diligence by our staff, our horticulturists review each plant before despatch to ensure quality is maintained.
Live Plant delivery charges are not calculated on weight but on the space required per package to ensure safe delivery, so delivery charges may vary as some plants require more space than others when packed.
All live plants are despatched within 3-5 working days where possible, our couriers aim to deliver within 48 hours of despatch from our Garden Centre to allow the plant to arrive in healthy condition.
 

Click & Collect

Can’t wait for delivery? Why not try our FREE Click & Collect service? Simply make your purchase online and collect it from our store located in Croagh Co. Limerick. Our staff will contact you by phone when your order is ready for collection (Please allow 24 hours minimum). When collecting your item, call the store on 069-64084. We will then load into your car as required. This service is available in-store 9am – 6pm Monday – Saturday (No collections on Sundays)

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