Columnar Sargent Cherry
Columnar Sargent Cherry (Prunus sargentii 'Columnaris')
Columnar Sargent Cherry is a narrow, upright selection of Sargent cherry prized for early spring pink bloom, polished cherry-brown bark, and vivid orange to scarlet fall color; its tight, vertical habit suits streetscapes, courtyards, and smaller residential sites.
Distinctive Features
Single, soft pink flowers open on bare branches before foliage; smooth, lustrous bark with pale lenticels provides winter interest, and the strongly columnar crown keeps a refined outline with minimal shaping.
Growing Conditions
- Sun Exposure: Full sun for best bloom, fall color, and canopy density.
- Soil: Fertile, well-drained loam; tolerates light clay if drainage is improved.
- Water: Even moisture; water deeply during establishment and extended dry spells.
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 4 to 7.
- Mature Size: About 25 to 35 ft tall and 10 to 15 ft wide.
- Bloom Time: Early spring, typically before or with leaf-out.
- Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, about 6.0 to 7.0.
Ideal Uses
- Focal Point: Columnar form and spring bloom create a striking vertical accent.
- Allee or Streetside: Repeating narrow trees frame drives and sidewalks elegantly.
- CourtYard or Patio: Compact spread fits tight urban or suburban spaces.
- Mixed Borders: Four-season bark and color add structure among perennials and shrubs.
Low Maintenance Care
- Watering: Maintain consistent moisture the first 2 to 3 years; deep soak in drought.
- Pruning: Prune lightly after flowering to 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: 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 Columnar Sargent Cherry?
- Space-Saving Form: Narrow habit fits small lots and tight streetscapes.
- Seasonal Drama: Pink spring bloom and fiery fall foliage.
- Winter Interest: Polished bark with showy lenticels adds off-season appeal.
- Refined Structure: Naturally upright silhouette needs little pruning.
Plant Columnar Sargent Cherry where full sun and well-drained soil support reliable bloom, brilliant fall color, and a clean, vertical profile.
OUR SIZING
Not sure what 2 inch B&B or 30 Gallon Clump really means? This guide breaks down all our plant size terms so you know exactly what to expect, whether you're ordering online or picking up at our nursery. From caliper measurements to container volumes, we've decoded our system to help you shop with confidence.
Plant Detectives Shipping Guide
Nationwide plant shipping made easy. Learn how we ship trees, shrubs, annuals and perennials. No order too big or too small. Fast, careful, and contractor-friendly.