Species

Prunus subhirtellaHigan Cherry

3 other cultivars

tree RHS Award

Pendula Weeping Higan Cherry

Prunus subhirtella 'Pendula'

$169.95

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.

Uses & Benefits:

This tree is a premier specimen plant, celebrated for the breathtaking beauty of its cascading pink blossoms in early spring. Its weeping form provides strong architectural and sculptural interest throughout the year, especially in winter.

Its small to medium size makes it suitable for a wide range of residential landscapes, including small yards and courtyard gardens. It can be used to frame a view, anchor a garden bed, or stand alone as a living sculpture.

The early spring flowers are an important nectar and pollen source for bees and other pollinators emerging from winter dormancy. Small, inconspicuous fruits may be eaten by birds.

SpeciesPrunus subhirtellaHigan Cherry

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

Bloom period

Early spring – Mid-spring

In flower about 2 months of the year

Marketplace

Where to Buy

Garden Goods Direct

In Stock$169.95

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

Elegant specimen tree for lawnsGraceful focal point near patios or water featuresStunning accent for entryway gardens

Companion Plants

Tulipa cultivars Narcissus cultivars Muscari armeniacum Helleborus x hybridus Phlox subulata

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Pendula Weeping Higan Cherry questions

What zones can Pendula Weeping Higan Cherry grow in?

Pendula 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 Pendula Weeping Higan Cherry deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Pendula Weeping Higan Cherry, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Pendula Weeping Higan Cherry bloom?

Pendula 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 Pendula Weeping Higan Cherry need full sun?

Pendula Weeping Higan Cherry does best in full sun (6+ hours).