Kwanzan Cherry
Prunus serrulata 'Kwanzan'
The most popular ornamental cherry tree in America, Kwanzan produces an absolutely breathtaking display of double pink flowers that cover every branch in mid-spring. These fluffy, rose-like blossoms are so abundant they often completely obscure the branches, creating a spectacular pink cloud effect that stops traffic. The reliable spring show, combined with attractive bronze-green summer foliage and golden fall color, makes this the ultimate flowering tree for maximum impact.
Harvest
N/Ad
Days to harvest
Sun
Full sun
Zones
5–8
USDA hardiness
Height
15-25 feet
Planting Timeline
Showing dates for Kwanzan Cherry in USDA Zone 7
All Zone 7 ornamental-tree →Zone Map
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Kwanzan Cherry · Zones 5–8
Growing Details
Zone-by-Zone Planting Calendar
Complete Growing Guide
Soil: Loam (Silt). Soil pH: Acid (<6.0), Alkaline (>8.0), Neutral (6.0-8.0). Drainage: Good Drainage, Moist. Height: 15 ft. 0 in. - 25 ft. 0 in.. Spread: 15 ft. 0 in. - 25 ft. 0 in.. Growth rate: Medium. Maintenance: Low. Regions: Coastal, Mountains, Piedmont.
Harvesting
The fruit is an inconspicuous, small, round, fleshy black drupe and appear in late summer.
Color: Black. Type: Drupe. Length: < 1 inch. Width: < 1 inch.
Harvest time: Summer
Bloom time: Spring
History & Origin
Origin: Japan, China, Korea
Advantages
- +Disease resistance: Deer
- +Attracts: Butterflies, Pollinators, Songbirds
- +Wildlife value: This is a larval host plant to Eastern Tiger Swallowtail (Papilio glaucus). You may see three flights from February-November in the deep south and two flights from May-September in the north. Birds relish the fruits, though they are not plentiful.
- +Low maintenance
Companion Plants
Plant Together
Lavender
Repels aphids and other pests while attracting beneficial pollinators
Catmint
Deters aphids and Japanese beetles that commonly attack cherry trees
Chives
Repels aphids and provides natural pest control without competing for nutrients
Marigold
Controls nematodes in soil and deters various pests that damage cherry trees
Comfrey
Deep roots bring up nutrients and leaves provide mulch when composted
Nasturtium
Acts as trap crop for aphids and cucumber beetles, protecting the cherry tree
Daffodils
Deter rodents and provide early spring color without competing with tree roots
Hostas
Thrive in partial shade under cherry canopy and help suppress weeds
Keep Apart
Black Walnut
Produces juglone which is toxic to cherry trees and inhibits their growth
Tomatoes
Susceptible to same bacterial diseases and may compete for similar nutrients
Grass Turf
Competes heavily for water and nutrients, especially problematic for young trees
Pests & Disease Resistance
Resistance
Moderate susceptibility to common stone fruit diseases
Common Pests
Aphids, spider mites, scale insects, tent caterpillars
Diseases
Black knot, brown rot, leaf spot, canker