Weeping Higan Cherry

Weeping Higan Cherry (Prunus x subhirtella 'Pendula')

Weeping Higan Cherry is a graceful ornamental cherry that drapes long, fountain-like branches in masses of soft pink, single blossoms each spring; glossy summer foliage and warm fall color extend its four-season appeal for small to medium landscapes.

Distinctive Features

Arching, cascading branches flower heavily on bare wood, creating a waterfall of bloom; polished, cherry-brown bark with pale lenticels provides winter interest, and bronzy new leaves mature deep green before turning golden to orange.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun for best bloom and canopy density; light afternoon shade in hot-summer regions.
• Soil: Fertile, well-drained loam; tolerates light clay if drainage is improved.
• 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 (grafted standard) and 15 to 25 ft wide, with cascading branches to the ground.
• Bloom Time: Early to mid spring on bare branches.
• Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, about 6.0 to 7.0.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Dramatic, weeping canopy creates a showpiece near entries and patios.
• Water Feature Companion: Fountain-like form mirrors ponds and rills.
• Allee or Walkway: Repeating weepers frame paths with seasonal spectacle.
• CourtYard Accent: Narrow trunk with wide, draping skirt fits compact spaces.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Maintain consistent moisture the first 2 to 3 years; deep water in drought, allowing the surface to dry slightly between soakings.
• Pruning: Prune lightly just after flowering to lift the skirt and shape; 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: Spread 2 to 3 in of 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; ensure graft union remains above soil and avoid waterlogged sites.

Why Choose Weeping Higan Cherry?

• Waterfall Bloom: Cascading branches smothered in soft pink flowers each spring.
• Elegant Structure: Classic weeping silhouette with year-round bark interest.
• Manageable Size: Grafted form fits residential landscapes and courtyards.
• Seasonal Depth: Spring bloom, summer gloss, and warm fall foliage.

Plant Weeping Higan Cherry where full sun and well-drained soil support abundant spring flowers and a graceful, weeping silhouette.