Japanese Flowering Cherry Prunus 'Fugenzo'

Names

• Family

  Rosaceae

• Synonyms

  Japanese Flowering Cherry, Sakura, Oriental Cherry

• Common names

  Prunus serrulata 'Fugenzo'.

Toxicity

• To humans

  Prunus 'Fugenzo', commonly referred to as Japanese flowering cherry, is not considered highly toxic to humans. However, like many members of the Prunus genus, the leaves, stems, and seeds contain compounds that can potentially be harmful if ingested in large quantities. These parts of the plant contain cyanogenic glycosides, which can release cyanide when digested. Symptoms of cyanide poisoning include headache, dizziness, difficulty breathing, confusion, and potentially could lead to coma or death in severe cases. It is important to avoid consuming parts of the Japanese flowering cherry that are not traditionally eaten, such as the pits of the cherry fruit.

• To pets

  Japanese flowering cherry is known to be toxic to pets if parts of the plant other than the ripe fruit are ingested. The leaves, stems, and seeds contain cyanogenic glycosides that can lead to cyanide poisoning in pets. Symptoms of poisoning could include panting, difficulty breathing, dilated pupils, and in serious cases, shock or even death. Care should be taken with pets around this plant, ensuring they do not chew on any parts of it.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  Pink

• Height

  15-25 feet (4.6-7.6 meters)

• Spread

  15-20 feet (4.6-6 meters)

• Plant type

  Tree

• Hardiness zones

  5-8

• Native area

  Asia

General Benefits

• Aesthetic Appeal: Prunus 'Fugenzo', commonly known as Japanese Flowering Cherry, has beautiful pink flowers that add visual interest and beauty to any landscape.
• Seasonal Interest: It provides a stunning spring display when in full blossom, marking the change of seasons and adding variety through the year.
• Habitat Support: The tree can offer food in the form of nectar and pollen for bees and other pollinators, supporting local ecosystems.
• Shade Provider: As it matures, this cherry tree can offer shade in gardens and parks, making outdoor spaces more comfortable during sunny days.
• Cultural Significance: The Japanese Flowering Cherry has cultural importance, especially in Japan, where it is celebrated during cherry blossom festivals, or Hanami.
• Property Value: Well-maintained ornamental trees such as the Japanese Flowering Cherry can increase property values by enhancing the overall appeal of the landscaping.
• Wildlife Attraction: The tree can attract birds and beneficial insects, contributing to biodiversity in the garden.
• Low Maintenance: Once established, the Japanese Flowering Cherry requires minimal care aside from occasional pruning and watering, making it suitable for those with busy lifestyles.

Medical Properties

This plant is not used for medical purposes.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Prunus 'Fugenzo', commonly known as Japanese Flowering Cherry, can have its branches and twoms used in floral arrangements, especially during spring when they are in full bloom.
• The tree can serve as a habitat for various species of birds, which find refuge in its branches and may feed on the insects it attracts.
• The Japanese Flowering Cherry is often used as a bonsai specimen, providing an opportunity for enthusiasts to shape and cultivate it in miniature form.
• In garden design, these trees are utilized for creating avenues or allees, as they provide a stunning floral display when planted in rows.
• The dried petals of the Japanese Flowering Cherry can be incorporated into homemade potpourris, imparting a subtle floral fragrance to the mixture.
• Wood from the Prunus 'Fugenzo' can be used in woodworking to make decorative items, such as picture frames or small boxes, thanks to its fine grain and texture.
• The blossoms can be pressed and used in crafts such as resin jewelry making, preserving the beauty of the cherry flowers in wearable art.
• Japanese Flowering Cherry trees can be strategically planted to provide shade in gardens and reduce local air temperature during hot months.
• When planted in larger landscapes, these trees can act as windbreaks, shielding smaller plants from strong winds.
• The fallen petals can add an organic layer to garden beds, decomposing to enrich the soil with nutrients beneficial for other plants.

Feng Shui

The Japanese Flowering Cherry is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The Japanese Flowering Cherry is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Beauty: Prunus 'Fugenzo', commonly known as Japanese Flowering Cherry, often symbolizes beauty due to its elegant flowers and the aesthetic appeal of its blossoms.
• Transience of Life: The brief blooming period of the cherry blossoms represents the fleeting nature of life, reminding us of the impermanence of beauty and human existence.
• Renewal: The cherry blossom season marks the arrival of spring, symbolizing new beginnings and the renewal of nature after winter.
• Purity: The delicate white and pink flowers are often associated with purity and innocence.