A Yoshino cherry tree (Prunus x yedoensis) is a species of cherry tree that also goes by the names somei-yoshino, Tokyo cherry, and Japanese flowering cherry. It is a popular ornamental tree that can be found in the Pacific, Atlantic and Gulf coastal regions of the United States. It is one of the most beloved cherry trees in the world and they can be seen lining streets and parks in their full-bloom, emitting a pink and white hue of petals that attract tourists in all seasons.
The Yoshino cherry tree’s white and pink blossoms appear in late winter or early spring and can last up to two weeks. This makes them an attractive and popular choice for gardens, as well as parks and public landscaping projects. But does this beautiful tree bear fruit?
The answer is yes, and the phrase “yoshino cherry tree” can actually refer to two species of cherry trees. The most common, and the only one native to Japan, is Prunus x yedoensis. Unless this species has been specifically hybridized to produce little or no fruit, it will be a source of edible cherries each summer. The second species, Prunus campanulata, is also known as a campanulate cherry tree. While it is far less common in the U.S., it does bear fruit, however, and grows best in cooler climates.
The Yoshino cherry tree is known for its abundant and fragrant flowers when in full bloom. This can make it difficult to harvest the fruit, as the petals will take on some of the cherry’s natural sugars and the ripe cherries can be hard to spot. This is why the cherry tree’s fruit tends to be mostly left on the tree, but it can be quite tasty if collected in time. Because the cherries ripen unevenly, it is important to inspect the tree several times to get the most out of it. Despite the challenge of harvesting the cherries, the Yoshino cherry tree maintains its beauty and appeal all year round.
The cherries themselves are even more bountiful over a longer period of time, especially in climates that experience moderately intense winters. In some regions the Yoshino cherry tree can produce fruit for up to five months, extending from late summer through early winter. Its cherries are slightly tart and dark, but still quite sweet. Some people even suggest combining them in jams, cakes and pastries for an even sweeter flavor.
In addition to its remarkable flowering capabilities, the Yoshino cherry tree is also known for its hardiness and durability. It can resist temperature extremes, from cold winter weather to dry and hot summer climates, as well as a number of fungus diseases and pests. And it grows relatively quickly, about a foot per year, meaning that a young Yoshino cherry tree can turn into a fully mature one in less than a decade.
Soil Requirements
Caring for a Yoshino cherry tree requires the right soil conditions. It prefers moist, but not wet, soil and needs to be well-drained. If the soil is consistently too wet, the roots may rot. The soil should also have a slightly acidic pH balance (between 5.5 and 6.5). If the soil is too alkaline, it could cause a nutrient deficiency. If the soil conditions are right, a Yoshino cherry tree won’t need any other fertilizer or special attention to keep it thriving.
Propagation
Yoshino cherry trees can be propagated by both seeds and cuttings. Growing from seed takes slightly longer, due to the lengthy amount of time it takes for it to produce a sapling. Cuttings from a mature tree, however, can produce a Yoshino cherry tree sapling much faster. The cuttings should be taken from a healthy plant with a vigorous root system. The cutting should be about four inches long, with two or three leaves, and put in a wet peat moss or sand mix. It is then laid on top of the soil, where rootlets will form in the next few weeks. Once they have grown and the cutting is stable, the tree can be moved outdoors to a sunny area.
Disease Prevention
One of the greatest threats to a Yoshino cherry tree is a fungus known as black knot. This fungus can cause swollen galls on the branches, as well as a black, knot-like growth. If left untreated, the disease can be fatal to the tree and damage other plants in the area. To control this disease, it is important to regularly inspect the tree for signs of infection and remove any excess sap or twigs on the ground or on the foliage. Other common diseases include blights, root rot, and scale insects. Treatments for these diseases include chemical and organic fungicides as well as insecticides.
Pruning and Maintenance
In addition to being disease resistant, the Yoshino cherry tree is also good for shaping and pruning. It is best to prune the tree when it is young, as the branches tend to be more pliable and the cuts easier to make. Over time, the tree will naturally develop a funnel shape, with the canopy underneath the tree being denser in foliage than the top. It is recommended to prune the tree lightly, to keep its shape and to prevent any disease or damage that can result from excessive pruning.
Conclusion
The Yoshino cherry tree is an attractive ornamental that is both hardy and beautiful. It produces abundant, fragrant, and tasty cherries each year and in some areas up to five months. This is a low maintenance tree that can be cared for easily and is disease resistant. Its fruit can be harvested, though it is often left on the tree for wildlife to enjoy. Growing a Yoshino cherry tree can bring years of enjoyment in any landscape.
