How to Grow Prunus Kanzan - Plant Care & Tips

By NorwichGardener Team   /   2024

Prunus kanzan is a beautiful ornamental plant that is related to the plum tree. It is native to Japan, where it is also known as the Japanese flowering cherry. The tree produces lovely pinkish-white flowers that bloom in the springtime. prunus kanzan is a popular plant in cultivation and is often used as an accent plant in gardens.

How to Grow Prunus Kanzan - Plant Care & Tips

Alternative name

  • Cherry blossom tree
  • Satozakura
  • Somei-yoshino
  • Yoshino cherry
  • Mountain cherry

Common Knowledge

  • Prunus kanzan is a species of cherry tree.
  • It is native to Japan.
  • It is a popular ornamental tree in many other countries.
  • It grows to a height of 10–20 m (33–66 ft).
  • The leaves are oblong-lanceolate, 7–12 cm (8–7 in) long and 5–5 cm (0.98–97 in) wide.
  • The flowers are white, 5–6 cm (0–4 in) in diameter.
  • The fruit is a drupe, 5–7 mm (0.20–0.28 in) in diameter.
  • The tree blooms in April or May.
  • The fruit ripens in June or July.
  • It is popularly known as the 'Japanese Flowering Cherry'.

Related plant:
Prunus Serrulata Kanzan

Planting Process

  1. For prunus kanzan, first step is to choose a sunny location.
  2. The second step is to dig a hole that is twice the size of the root ball.
  3. The third step is to mix the soil with compost.
  4. The fourth step is to place the tree in the hole.
  5. The fifth step is to fill in the hole with the mixture of soil and compost.
  6. The sixth step is to water the tree deeply.
  7. The seventh step is to mulch the tree with a layer of organic matter.
  8. The eighth step is to fertilize the tree in early spring.
  9. The ninth step is to prune the tree in late winter.
  10. The tenth and final step is to enjoy the beautiful cherry blossoms!

Related plant:
Prunus Triloba

The Soil

About soil condition, the Prunus kanzan is best in well-drained, loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. It tolerates a wide range of soils but performs best in soils that are deep, moist, and not overly rich.

Light requirement

Not too different with other plum trees, the prunus kanzan requires full sun in order to produce the most fruit. It is possible to grow this tree in partial sun, but it may not produce as much fruit. In addition, the tree will need to be watered regularly in order to prevent the roots from getting too dry.

Ideal Temperature

The temperature condition of Prunus kanzan is optimal for growth between 60-70 degrees Fahrenheit. Prunus kanzan will go into dormancy below 60 degrees Fahrenheit and experience a loss in vigor and productivity. Above 70 degrees Fahrenheit, Prunus kanzan will experience an increase in respiration rate and a decrease in photosynthesis.

Humidity Aspect

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is 40-50%. If the humidity is any lower, the plant will start to suffer and may eventually die. If the humidity is too high, the plant will become susceptible to pests and diseases.

Fertilizing

Discussing fertilizer, usually the plant needs more nitrogen when it is actively growing in the spring. A general rule of thumb is to use 1/4 the recommended amount on the fertilizer package. However, it is best to have your soil tested to see what nutrients it is lacking so you can provide what the plant needs specifically. As for the roots, they grow best in loose, well-drained soil. If the soil is too compacted, the roots will have trouble growing and the plant will be stunted.

Light requirement

Pruning your Prunus kanzan plant is important to maintaining its shape and preventing it from getting too large. You should prune in early spring, before new growth starts. Cut back any dead or damaged branches first. Then, cut back any branches that are growing too long or out of shape. Finally, cut back any branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other.

The Propagation

Propagation of Prunus kanzan is typically done through rooting hardwood cuttings taken from the previous season's growth. The cuttings should be taken from healthy, vigorously growing branches that are about 2-4 inches in diameter. Cuttings should be taken from the upper portion of the branch and should be around 18 inches long. The bottom end of the cutting should be cut at a 45-degree angle, and the top end should be cut at a sharp angle. The cuttings should then be placed in a moist media such as perlite, vermiculite, or sand. They should be placed in a propagator or covered with a clear plastic bag to maintain high humidity. Cuttings should be kept at a temperature of 70-75 degrees Fahrenheit.

Growth Speed

Usually, the plant growth rate is about 1 meter per year. The average lifespan of a prunus kanzan is about 20 to 30 years, with some individual trees living for much longer. The oldest known prunus kanzan tree is about 400 years old.

The Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are canker, powdery mildew, black knot, and leaf spot. Canker is a fungal infection that can kill parts of the tree. Powdery mildew is a white powdery fungus that can cause leaves to drop. Black knot is a black fungus that can kill the tree. Leaf spot is a brown or black fungus that can cause leaves to drop.

Growing Tips

  • Remember to stake your prunus kanzan when you first plant it to give it some support.
  • Keep the area around your prunus kanzan clear of weeds and grass so that it doesn't have to compete for resources.
  • Water your prunus kanzan regularly, especially during the warmer months.
  • Apply a fertilizer specifically for flowering plants to encourage lots of blooms.
  • Prune your prunus kanzan after it has flowered to keep it healthy and encourage new growth.
  • Deadhead any faded or dying flowers to keep the plant looking tidy and to encourage more blooms.
  • Protect your prunus kanzan from strong winds by planting it in a sheltered spot.
  • Keep an eye out for pests and diseases and treat them promptly if you spot any.
  • Make sure to plant your prunus kanzan in an appropriate location that gets plenty of

Similar Plants

  • Prunus kalkanensis
  • Prunus kansuensis
  • Prunus kerrii
  • Prunus kiusiana
  • Prunus komarovii
  • Prunus kordova
  • Prunus kunmingensis
  • Prunus kurilensis
  • Prunus kusakura
  • Prunus kwchensis

Source:
Prunus serrulata 'Kanzan' | Gardens
Resources :: Prunus serrulata 'Kanzan' | Smithsonian Learning Lab
Prunus serrulata 'Kanzan' | Smithsonian Institution - si.edu

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Trees Category