Sargent’s Cherry

Probably the best flowering cherry for year-round interest, Prunus sargentii is a medium-sized, fairly fast-growing, deciduous tree with a spreading, open, vase-shaped habit and glossy, dark brown bark. The long, ovate leaves emerge bronze-red, turn green in summer, then in autumn turn fiery shades of orange and red. In April, before the leaves emerge, the tree is covered with pale, rose-pink, single flowers, 4cm across and a good source of nectar. These are followed by small, shiny, cherry-like fruits in shades of yellow, orange, red and purple, which are very attractive to birds. A beautiful tree, especially lovely planted by water.

Site: Tolerates some exposure and salt air
Soil: Any well drained soil, preferably moist
Position: Full sun
Season of interest: Spring and autumn in particular
Hardiness: Fully hardy
Height: up to 40’ (12m) Spread: 26’ (8m) in 20 years

Photos by Usien and Kor!An and licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.