Fuji Cherry Prunus incisa 'Oshidori' (d)
ABOUT
The 'Oshidori' is a flowering cherry type known for its ornamental qualities. It sports a profusion of delicate white flowers, which are often tinged with soft pink at the petal edges, creating a gentle gradient of color that is particularly striking during the spring bloom. The flowers themselves form intricate clusters, each individual bloom composed of five rounded petals surrounding a conspicuous center filled with prominent stamens that attract pollinators. The foliage of 'Oshidori' is equally attractive, with leaves that emerge in a bold reddish hue, maturing into a fresh green as the season progresses. In the fall, the leaves offer a visual treat as they shift to vibrant shades of orange and red before falling, adding a layer of warm color to the garden landscape. The overall shape of the plant is aesthetically pleasing, with a branching structure that creates a pleasing canopy. The branches can sometimes exhibit a zigzag pattern, adding texture and visual interest to the plant's silhouette. The bark, although not as showy as the flowers or foliage, has a smooth and subdued appearance that provides a nice backdrop to the brighter seasonal displays. Though size is not the focus, the proportion of elements in this cherry plant – the balance between its delicate blooms, leaf shape, and branching structure – all contribute to its ornamental appeal, making it a favored choice for gardeners looking to add a burst of spring beauty and year-round interest to their landscapes.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Rosaceae
Synonyms
Fuji Cherry, Oshidori Fuji Cherry, Oshidori Japanese Cherry
Common names
Prunus incisa 'Oshidori'
ToxicityTo humans
Prunus incisa 'Oshidori', commonly known as the Fuji cherry, is part of the Prunus genus, which includes plants that can have components toxic to humans. Members of this genus often contain cyanogenic glycosides, particularly in their seeds, leaves, and stems. When ingested, these compounds can convert to hydrogen cyanide, potentially leading to symptoms such as difficulty breathing, dizziness, headaches, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and potentially more severe outcomes like coma or death in extreme cases. It is generally advised to avoid consuming the non-fruit parts of the plant to prevent the risk of poisoning.
To pets
Prunus incisa 'Oshidori', known as the Fuji cherry, is toxic to pets if ingested due to the presence of cyanogenic glycosides found in the seeds, leaves, and stems of the plant just like in other Prunus species. When pets consume parts of the plant containing these compounds, it can result in the production of hydrogen cyanide in their bodies. Signs of toxicity may include salivation, weakness, difficulty breathing, incoordination, dilated pupils, and in severe cases, seizures and coma which could be life-threatening. It is important to prevent pets from having access to these parts of the plant to avoid the risk of poisoning.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
8 feet (2.44 meters)
Spread
4 feet (1.22 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
6
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: The Prunus incisa 'Oshidori', commonly known as Fuji cherry, is valued for its stunning floral display, with white to pink blossoms that enhance any garden's visual appeal.
- Compact Size: Fuji cherry is a small, compact tree, making it suitable for smaller gardens or restricted spaces where larger trees would not fit.
- Seasonal Interest: This plant provides year-round interest with blossoms in spring, fruit in late summer, and attractive autumn foliage, catering to a variety of visual preferences throughout the seasons.
- Low Maintenance: Fuji cherry requires minimal pruning and care once established, making it an effortless addition to both novice and expert gardeners' landscapes.
- Pollinator Friendly: The flowers attract bees and other pollinators, supporting local biodiversity and the health of surrounding plant life.
- Ornamental Fruit: Although not typically grown for fruit, the tree produces small cherries that provide additional ornamental value and interest to wildlife.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- The Fuji cherry's wood, being dense and fine-grained, can be used for creating intricate woodworking projects, such as decorative pieces or small furniture.
- The plant's blossoms can be used in floral arrangements to add a springtime feel to indoor spaces, often lasting longer than cut flowers when properly cared for.
- Prunus incisa 'Oshidori' can be employed in bonsai art due to its attractive flowers and manageable size, making it a popular choice among bonsai enthusiasts.
- The flowers can be used in the production of fragrances or scents, as they have a subtle and pleasant aroma.
- The tree's naturally compact growth habit makes it a suitable choice for creating living fences or privacy screens in small gardens or terraces.
- The leaves of the Fuji cherry can be used to create natural dyes for fabric or paper, offering a range of subtle green hues.
- The dried branches can be used as natural decorations or in craft work, particularly when they retain their small, intricate leaves or blossoms.
- During fall, the colorful foliage of Prunus incisa 'Oshidori' can be gathered and used to create seasonal wreaths or other autumn-themed decorations.
- Fruit from the Fuji cherry can sometimes be used in artistic presentations or as a natural food source for birds and wildlife in garden settings.
- As part of cultural practices or festivals that celebrate spring, branches may be cut and brought indoors to force early blooms, serving as a symbol of the coming season.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Prunus incisa 'Oshidori' is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant Prunus incisa 'Oshidori' is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Beauty: As a cherry blossom variety, the 'Oshidori' is admired for its delicate and picturesque blooms, representing beauty in nature.
- Transience: Cherry blossoms are known for their fleeting beauty, blooming en masse for a short period before falling; they symbolize the transient nature of life.
- Renewal: The annual blossoming of cherry trees, including the 'Oshidori', heralds spring and signifies the cycle of renewal and new beginnings.
- Love: In Japanese culture, cherry blossoms are often associated with love and romance, reflecting the deep affection and emotional intensity usually seen in fleeting moments.
- Purity: The 'Oshidori' cherry blossom's delicate white or pale pink flowers are also symbols of purity and innocence.
WaterFuji Cherry should be watered deeply every week during the first growing season to help establish a strong root system. In absence of rain, provide a total of approximately 1-2 gallons per watering, depending on the size of the plant and soil conditions. After establishment, reduce watering frequency, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. During hot, dry periods, additional watering may be necessary. Be cautious not to overwater, as Fuji Cherry does not tolerate waterlogged conditions.
LightFuji Cherry thrives in full sun but can tolerate some partial shade. The ideal spot would provide at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. While a bit of afternoon shade is acceptable, too much shade can reduce flowering and fruiting potential.
TemperatureFuji Cherry plants prefer a temperate climate and are hardy in USDA zones 5 through 8. They can handle winter lows down to about -20°F and summer highs typically up to 86°F, although they can survive higher temperatures if not prolonged. The ideal temperature range for growing Fuji Cherry is between 60°F and 75°F.
PruningPrune Fuji Cherry to remove any dead or diseased branches, to shape the plant, and to encourage healthy growth. The best time for pruning is after the plant has finished blooming in late spring. Typically, pruning once a year is sufficient, but additional light pruning can be done to maintain the desired shape.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Fuji Cherry prefers well-draining, fertile soil with a mixture of loam, organic compost, and some sand to improve drainage. The ideal soil pH for Prunus incisa 'Oshidori' should be mildly acidic to neutral, ranging from 5.5 to 7.0.
RepottingFuji Cherry trees should be repotted every 2 to 3 years to ensure healthy growth. Younger and more vigorously growing specimens might require more frequent repotting.
Humidity & MistingFuji Cherry does not require specific humidity levels, but it thrives in outdoor conditions where the humidity is naturally regulated by the environment.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light, cool temps, and moist well-drained soil.
Outdoor
Plant in well-drained soil in a sunny, protected spot.
Hardiness zone
5-8 USDA
Life cycle'Oshidori' Fuji cherry begins its life cycle when its seeds germinate in suitable conditions, typically requiring a period of cold stratification to break dormancy. The plant then enters a growth phase as a seedling, establishing roots and foliage as it matures into a sapling. Throughout the spring, the 'Oshidori' Fuji cherry produces a profusion of blossoms, often attracting pollinators which facilitate its reproductive cycle through the fertilization of flowers. Following pollination, the tree forms tiny cherries that contain seeds, completing its reproductive stage. Over the years, the tree enters a mature phase, where it achieves its full size and continues to produce flowers and fruits annually. Eventually, the tree will enter a senescence phase characterized by reduced growth and vitality, concluding its life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Prunus incisa 'Oshidori', commonly known as the Fuji Cherry, is typically propagated in late winter to early spring before new growth begins. The most popular method for propagating the Fuji Cherry is by semi-hardwood cuttings. This involves taking a 4 to 6 inch cutting from a healthy, new growth branch and removing the leaves from the lower half of the cutting. The cut end is then dipped into rooting hormone to encourage root development and planted in a well-draining soil mix. The cutting should be kept in a warm, humid environment, with indirect light, to prevent drying out while roots form. With proper care, the cutting will develop roots within a few weeks to a couple of months, after which it can be transplanted to a more permanent location in the garden.
