Autumn Flowering Cherry

Autumn Flowering Cherry (Prunus subhirtella 'Autumnalis')

Autumn Flowering Cherry is a graceful ornamental cherry admired for delicate, semi-double, pale pink to near-white blossoms that open in waves from late fall through early spring, with a fuller show in mid spring; a fine-textured canopy and attractive bark provide four-season interest for small to medium landscapes.

Distinctive Features

Cool-season blooming brings off-season color on mild days, followed by a spring encore; arching branches, polished bark, and bronzy new leaves that mature green and turn yellow to apricot in fall extend the display.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun for best bloom and canopy density; light afternoon shade in hot summers.
• Soil: Fertile, well-drained loam; tolerates light clay with improved drainage.
• Water: Keep evenly moist during establishment; deep soak in extended dry spells.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5 to 8.
• Mature Size: Typically 20 to 30 ft tall and 15 to 25 ft wide.
• Bloom Time: Intermittent late fall to early spring, peak in early to mid spring.
• Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, about 6.0 to 7.0.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Off-season blossoms create a unique statement near entries and patios.
• Specimen Tree: Elegant, arching canopy anchors lawns and mixed borders.
• Allee or Walkway: Repeating trees frame paths with seasonal color.
• Wildlife Support: Early and late nectar for pollinators during mild spells.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Maintain consistent moisture the first 2 to 3 years; irrigate deeply in drought.
• Pruning: Prune lightly after main spring bloom; remove dead, crossing, or cankered wood and avoid heavy winter cuts.
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring if growth is weak.
• Mulching: 2 to 3 in organic mulch over the root zone, keeping it off the trunk.
• Notes: Site with good air flow to reduce leaf spot and mildew; monitor for aphids and borers; avoid waterlogged soils.

Why Choose Autumn Flowering Cherry?

• Season-Spanning Bloom: Flowers in mild fall and winter weather plus a spring finale.
• Graceful Structure: Fine branching and polished bark add winter interest.
• Manageable Size: Fits residential lots without overwhelming the space.
• Landscape Versatility: Performs as specimen, allee, or lawn tree with reliable color.

Plant Autumn Flowering Cherry where full sun and well-drained soil support its unique cool-season blossoms and elegant, four-season silhouette.