The Yoshino cherry tree also known as the Japanese flowering cherry tree is one of the most popular and beloved ornamental trees. Native to Asia, these graceful trees are now planted worldwide for their stunning displays of pink or white blossoms in spring.
But are Yoshino cherry trees the right choice for your landscape? Like any plant, they have both positive and negative attributes Weighing the Yoshino cherry tree pros and cons will help you decide if this iconic tree is a good fit for your yard
The Pros of Yoshino Cherry Trees
Beautiful and Fragrant Spring Flowers
Without a doubt, the #1 advantage of Yoshino cherries is their spectacular spring blooms Few flowering trees can compare to the dreamy clouds of delicate pink and white petals that emerge along the bare branches each spring. The lightly fragrant flowers appear very early, often in March or early April, transforming the landscape into a fairyland of color
The Yoshino is one of the first ornamental cherry trees to bloom each year. Their flowers add unique texture and romance to the landscape. The floral display only lasts 1-2 weeks, but no other flower can match the Yoshino’s beautiful blooms.
Graceful Form and Arching Branches
Even without flowers, the Yoshino cherry has elegant architectural form. The branches grow in a distinctive horizontal vase shape, curving downward in an oriental manner. Mature height ranges from 20-40 feet tall and spread is around 20-35 feet wide.
The delicate branches give Yoshinos an airy, feminine look. Their form adds visual interest and Asian flair to the landscape all year round.
Versatile Growing Conditions
While Yoshino cherries prefer moist, well-drained soil, they adapt to a wide range of soil textures and pH levels. Their roots tolerate both clay and sandy soils. Acidic to slightly alkaline pH suits them well.
Once established, Yoshinos are quite drought tolerant. They can handle environmental stresses and changes that affect more fastidious trees. Their resilience makes them an ideal choice for urban and suburban areas.
Minimal Care Needs
After planting, Yoshino cherry trees are relatively hands-off. They require little pruning or upkeep to stay healthy and flower well each year. Simply apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring and irrigate occasionally during droughts.
Compared to many flowering fruit trees, Yoshinos have few pesky pest or disease problems. Their self-reliant nature keeps maintenance easy.
Winter Hardiness
Mature Yoshino cherry trees can withstand winter chill down to -10° F once established. Their blossoms emerge early, however, making them prone to damage from late frosts. But in most climates, they bloom late enough to avoid frost issues. Hardiness and climate adaptability make them popular far beyond their native Asian range.
The Cons of Yoshino Cherry Trees
Very Short Flowering Period
The Yoshino cherry’s notoriously brief flowering time is a mixed blessing. Their blooms only last for 7-14 days before fading away. You only get to enjoy the spectacle for a fleeting moment each spring. Some homeowners feel disappointed by the transient flowers.
They Lack Fall Color
After flowering ends, Yoshino cherries have only modest seasonal appeal. Their summer foliage is an ordinary green color. Red or yellow fall leaf colors would add more multiseason interest, but Yoshinos simply fade to yellowish-brown in autumn.
Potentially Invasive Roots
Yoshino cherry trees produce vigorous root systems that aggressively seek moisture and nutrients. The extensive roots often heave up sidewalks, driveways, and lawns when planted too close to infrastructure. Careful siting and planning is needed.
Relatively Short Lifespan
A Yoshino cherry’s average life expectancy is just 15-25 years, which is shorter than many trees. Their fast growth leads to weaker branch structure over time. Yoshinos become prone to storm damage and decay as they mature, declining more quickly than other cherries.
Vulnerability to Damage
The graceful branching that gives Yoshino cherries their beauty also makes them more vulnerable. Heavy snow or ice readily breaks the slender angled branches. Open sites expose them to wind damage as well. Avoid planting Yoshinos in high-traffic zones where bark can get damaged.
Final Verdict: Are Yoshino Cherry Trees Worth Planting?
Yoshino cherry trees provide outstanding ornamental value, especially when covered in blossoms. Though their flowering period is fleeting, the floral display is nearly unparalleled in its beauty. They require minimal care and give a romantic, Asian accent to landscapes. Despite a few drawbacks, their spring romance makes Yoshinos a delight in most settings. When sited thoughtfully and cared for properly, they make fabulous additions to many gardens.
Key Facts About Yoshino Cherry Trees
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Originated in Asia but now planted worldwide
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Among the earliest flowering ornamental cherry trees
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Maximum height of 30-50 feet with 25-40 foot spread
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White to pale pink blossoms in spring last 1-2 weeks
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Adaptable to various soil types if kept moist
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Tolerant of urban conditions and air pollution
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Can withstand winter temperatures down to -10°F when mature
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Prone to root invasiveness if planted too close to infrastructure
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Susceptible to storm damage from heavy snow and winds
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Average lifespan is just 15-25 years
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Require minimal pruning, water, and fertilizer once established
Tips for Growing Yoshino Cherry Trees
Yoshino cherries may have a few flaws, but their spring floral display makes up for their shortcomings in most gardens. Follow these tips to grow Yoshino cherries successfully:
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Choose an open site with full sun to encourage the heaviest flowering. Morning sun is essential.
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Plant in moist, well-draining loam. Amend clay or sandy soils to improve fertility and drainage.
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Allow plenty of room for growth, at least 20 feet from buildings, pipes, and paving.
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Water regularly for the first 2 years while roots establish. Then provide supplemental irrigation during droughts.
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Apply a balanced, extended-release fertilizer each spring to support growth and flowering.
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Prune only to remove damaged or crowded branches. Avoid heavy pruning that removes flower buds.
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Monitor for signs of pests like aphids or diseases like bacterial canker and treat quickly.
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Protect trees from heavy winds and ice/snow loading when possible to prevent branch breakage.
With proper siting, planting, and care, Yoshino cherry trees will reward you with abundant cascades of fragrant pinkish-white blooms starting each spring. The floral display is unmatched for sheer romance when Yoshinos are happy. Though their drawbacks give pause, for most gardens the positives far outweigh any limitations of these elegant flowering cherries.
This exquisite tree will be admired by everyone who passes!
- Pretty pink white blooms in spring
- Reaches 20 feet tall and 30 feet wide
- Creates that dramatic landscape appearance
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| Soil Type | Well Drained |
| Sunlight | Full |
| Drought Tolerance | Good |
| Mature Height | 15-20 Feet |
| Mature Width | 20-30 Feet |
| Fall Color | Yellow |
| Bloom Color | Pink, White |
| Shipping Restriction | AZ, CA, ID, OR, WA |
The Weeping Yoshino Cherry tree is an absolutely stunning addition to any landscape. This gorgeous tree is featured alongside its sister, the standard Yoshino Cherry tree, and its cousin, the Kwanzan Cherry tree, at the Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington D.C. This weeping tree is harder to find than its upright relatives. We are so happy to have limited quantities this year to offer to our customers!
Cascading branches flow toward the earth, contrasting almost everything else in the landscape. Pretty light pink blooms coat these branches in early spring, adding color and phenomenal beauty. The Weeping Yoshino Cherry tree reaches about 20 feet in height and 30 feet in width
Key Features
- Cascading habit. The arching branches add some serious visual appeal and contrast to your home landscape.
- Compact size. At 15 to 20 tall and up to 30 feet wide the Pink Weeping Cherry tree can fit in most yards.
- Curb appeal. This exquisite tree will be admired by everyone who passes and increase your property value!
- Low maintenance. Weeping Yoshino trees are easy to grow and, once established, drought-tolerant.
Weeping Yoshino Cherry Tree FAQ
How Long Does This Tree Take To Mature?
Reaching maturity in as little as 10 years to about 20 feet in height and 30 feet in width.
How To Prune A Weeping Yoshino Cherry
Pruning is not recommended for weeping ornamental cherry trees unless necessary. Prune in winter or early spring to remove any dead, dying, or crowded branches.
Where To Plant This Cherry Tree
Plant this tree in a spot that has well drained soil and full sun exposure in grow zones 5-8. Weeping Yoshino Cherry Tree Care
Spring and fall are ideal times to plant your Weeping Yoshino Cherry tree. However, if you avoid freezing temperatures and extreme heat you can plant your flowering cherry tree almost any time of the year.
Yoshino cherry trees thrive in full sun and are adaptable to any well draining soil. Water deeply when planting and about twice weekly for about 3 months while your new tree is establishing. Once your tree is established you will only need to water during extreme dry periods. Adding a layer of mulch around your tree is recommended especially with newly planted trees. This will help keep the soil moist and cool in summer and protect the roots in winter as well.
Feed your tree when planting and in early spring with a slow release fertilizer.
Pruning is not recommended for weeping ornamental cherry trees unless necessary. Prune in winter or early spring to remove any dead, dying, or crowded branches.
The best way to prevent disease and pests is by providing the right care for your plants. Scale, aphids and mites are insects that can affect flowering cherry trees. You can treat these pests naturally with horticultural oil, neem oil, or insecticidal soap. For severe infections you can use pesticides like carbaryl, also known as Sevin. Tent Caterpillars and Cankerworms are sometimes an issue for flowering cherry trees. These can be treated with an organic pesticide spray, Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt). Occasionally fungal issues can occur especially in humid areas or when overhead watering is used. Generally, treating after infection isnt extremely effective, so if you have problems yearly, treat in early spring with fungicides to prevent infection. Neem Oil is an organic method of treating and preventing some fungal diseases and pests. It can be effective, but the entire tree must be coated in order for this method to be effective. Most fungal problems are cosmetic issues for the leaf and do not affect the overall health of the tree. Landscape ideas
The Weeping Cherry tree is a perfect focal tree for a small or large yard.
Plant your Weeping Yoshino Cherry tree in a showcased spot in your yard. Make an island out of the bed. Add a boulder off to the side of the cherry tree and use some soft touch holly shrubs or blue star junipers on the sides.
Weeping Yoshino Cherry trees are perfect centerpieces for rock or cottage gardens. Mix well with Japanese Snowbell also.
A group of 3 cherry trees is great for anchoring the corner of a large yard and will add tons of character to your landscape and home.
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How to Care for Yoshino Cherry | How to, tips, and tricks for fertilizing, pruning, etc.
FAQ
What are the disadvantages of cherry blossom trees?
About flowering cherry trees
They are attractive trees for Maryland landscapes but are subject to problems associated with insect pests, diseases, and weather extremes. Their lifespan ranges from 20-25 years in the typical landscape. Most diseases are favored by wet seasons.
Are Yoshino Cherry tree roots invasive?
The Yoshino cherry tree originates from Japan, where it has been cultivated and cherished for centuries. In the United States, it is a non-native tree but it is not considered invasive.
Where is the best place to plant a Yoshino Cherry tree?
The Yoshino Flowering Cherry is a fast-growing, medium-stature ornamental tree that thrives in full sunlight (ideally for at least 6 hours per day). They are mildly drought-tolerant and adaptable to most soil types, as long as the soil is well-drained.
What are the benefits of Yoshino Cherry tree?
Fragrance: The delicate, almond-scented flowers can perfume an entire garden, enhancing the sensory experience of your outdoor space. Attracts Pollinators: The flowers are a source of nectar and attract a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies, which can help pollinate other plants in your garden.
Are Yoshino Cherries bad for You?
Although the small cherries are too bitter for people to eat, they provide a vital food source for birds, butterflies, and other pollinators. Renowned for their heat tolerance, graceful branching, and stunning spring blossoms, Yoshino cherry trees bring a unique beauty to any landscape.
Are Yoshino cherry trees real?
This real-world experience ensures that she champions useful, well-researched articles and comprehensive provider reviews. Yoshino cherry trees, or Japanese flowering cherry trees, are a standout at cherry blossom festivals worldwide. Their almond-scented, whitish-pink blossoms create a stunning display against bare branches each spring.
Are Yoshino cherry trees healthy?
The Yoshino cherry tree has demonstrated greater disease resistance to typical cherry tree diseases including cherry leaf spot and powdery mildew. Although the Akebono cherry tree is normally in good health, further maintenance and disease prevention measures could be necessary. Cultural Significance
Are Yoshino cherry trees pest resistant?
Troublesome pests and diseases plague many flowering trees, but the Yoshino cherry tree is refreshingly resistant. Bacterial canker, leaf spot, and blight may occasionally occur but rarely seriously impact tree health. Yoshinos suffer minimal pest damage beyond some aphid feeding. Their resilience makes maintenance easy.
Do Yoshino cherry trees need a lot of Sun?
Benefits from adding compost or manure before planting. Full sun (6-8 hours) is ideal for optimal flowering and growth. Can tolerate partial shade but may have reduced blooms. During the first two years after planting, Yoshino cherry trees require weekly watering (once every two weeks once established).
What part of Yoshino cherry trees are toxic?
The leaves, stems, branches, and blossoms of the Yoshino cherry are toxic to pets and humans as they contain cyanogenic glycosides that prevent oxygen from being carried to cells. The drupes are nontoxic to humans.