
Weeping Higan Cherry
Prunus subhirtella 'Pendula'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Tree
Height
300 inches
Width
240 inches
Light
Full Sun
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Relatively short-lived tree, 20-30 years
Native To
Japan
Toxicity
Twigs, leaves, and seeds contain cyanide; toxic if ingested
The Story
Plant Bio
Prunus subhirtella, the Higan cherry, is a small ornamental tree from Japan, prized for its profuse and early spring blossoms that often appear before the leaves. 'Pendula' is a graceful, weeping form that creates a stunning floral cascade of light pink flowers in early spring. Its elegant, drooping branches provide year-round architectural interest.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Choose a location in full sun with fertile, well-drained soil.
- Dig a hole two to three times the width of the root ball.
- Set the tree in the hole so the root flare is at or slightly above grade.
- Backfill with soil, gently firming it down.
- Water deeply after planting to settle the soil.
- Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch, keeping it away from the trunk.
Pro Tip
Plant in a location with excellent drainage and good air circulation to minimize disease problems common to cherries.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry spells.
- Ensure the soil is well-drained to prevent root rot.
- Mulch annually to protect the shallow root system.
- Prune out any suckers that grow from below the graft union.
Don't
- Do not plant in heavy, wet clay soil.
- Avoid overhead watering, which can encourage fungal diseases.
- Don't prune heavily; it can ruin the natural weeping form.
- Avoid damaging the trunk with lawnmowers or trimmers.
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Weeping Higan Cherry questions
What zones can Weeping Higan Cherry grow in?
Weeping Higan Cherry is hardy in USDA Zones 5–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Weeping Higan Cherry deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Weeping Higan Cherry, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Weeping Higan Cherry bloom?
Weeping Higan Cherry typically blooms in early spring through mid-spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Weeping Higan Cherry need full sun?
Weeping Higan Cherry does best in full sun (6+ hours).
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