Japanese Flowering Cherry Prunus 'Shogetsu'
ABOUT
The Prunus 'Shogetsu', commonly known as the 'Shogetsu' flowering cherry, is a stunning deciduous tree that is especially known for its striking floral display. The branches of the Shogetsu are adorned with clusters of large, double flowers that possess a soft pink hue when they first bloom, gradually fading to white as they mature. Each blossom is comprised of numerous delicate petals that create a frilly, almost ruffled appearance, adding to the tree's charm. The leaves of the 'Shogetsu' flowering cherry emerge along with the flowers or shortly thereafter, displaying an initial bronze color before transitioning to a bright green. Come autumn, the foliage provides additional visual interest by changing to vibrant shades of orange and red before falling. This tree's growth habit is noteworthy, as it often forms a broad, spreading canopy that gracefully arches, creating a weeping effect that further enhances its aesthetic appeal. The bark on the trunk and branches is a smooth, glossy texture that can vary in color from a grayish-brown to a darker brown, providing a beautiful contrast to the lighter colored blooms and foliage. Overall, the 'Shogetsu' flowering cherry is celebrated for its breathtaking springtime blossoms and the elegant, sweeping shape of its canopy, making it a beloved ornamental choice for gardens and landscapes where it can be showcased without concern for its size.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Rosaceae.
Synonyms
Shogetsu Cherry, Blushing Bride Cherry.
Common names
Prunus 'Shogetsu'.
ToxicityTo humans
The Prunus 'Shogetsu', commonly known as cherry, can be toxic to humans if certain parts are ingested. All parts of the cherry tree except the ripe fruit contain cyanogenic glycosides, which can release cyanide in the body when chewed and ingested. The symptoms of cherry poisoning can include headache, dizziness, confusion, nausea, difficulty breathing, and potentially, if enough is consumed, can lead to cyanide poisoning, which can be lethal.
To pets
The Prunus 'Shogetsu', commonly known as cherry, poses a toxicity risk to pets if they ingest parts of the plant other than the ripe fruit. The leaves, stems, and seeds contain cyanogenic glycosides, which can release cyanide when metabolized. Signs of cherry poisoning in pets can include dilated pupils, difficulty breathing, panting, shock, and red gums; in severe cases, ingestion can lead to cyanide poisoning, which can be fatal.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
12-20 feet (3.6-6 meters)
Spread
15 feet (4.5 meters)
Plant type
Tree
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: The Prunus 'Shogetsu' or Cherry Blossom tree is highly valued for its stunning floral display in spring, when it is covered with beautiful white or pink blossoms.
- Landscape Design: Due to its picturesque blooms and branching structure, it is often used in landscape design to create focal points or to enhance the aesthetics of gardens and parks.
- Wildlife Attraction: The flowers provide nectar for pollinators such as bees, and the tree can also offer habitat for birds and other wildlife.
- Seasonal Interest: It offers seasonal interest with flowers in the spring, fruit in the summer, and colorful foliage in the autumn.
- Shade Provider: As it matures, it can provide a significant amount of shade, making it an excellent choice for parks, gardens, and as a street tree in urban environments.
- Cultural Symbolism: The Cherry Blossom tree has important cultural significance, especially in Japan where it symbolizes the fleeting nature of life; the tree is celebrated during cherry blossom festivals.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Woodworking: The wood of Shogetsu can be used for crafting small wooden objects, such as decorative bowls or ornaments, due to its fine grain and attractive appearance.
- Bonsai: Shogetsu, like many other Prunus species, can be cultivated as bonsai, offering a miniature but realistic representation of a full-size tree.
- Photography Prop: Owing to its striking spring blossom, Shogetsu serves as an alluring subject for photographers, especially during the flowering season.
- Edible Flowers: The flowers of the Shogetsu cherry can be crystallized or used fresh as edible decorations on desserts, though they offer more aesthetic value than flavor.
- Dye Making: The blossoms of Shogetsu can be used to create a natural light pink dye for fabrics or crafts.
- Floral Arrangements: Branches of Shogetsu cherry are sought after for use in ikebana, the Japanese art of flower arranging, or simply as cut flowers to beautify indoor spaces.
- Wildlife Support: Shogetsu trees can provide food in the form of nectar and pollen for bees and other pollinating insects during their blooming cycle.
- Landscape Photography: Shogetsu trees are often integrated into landscape designs and can serve as a focal point for panoramic photography, particularly in spring.
- Cultural Symbol: In some cultures, Shogetsu cherry blossoms represent the ephemeral nature of life, and they can be used as part of cultural or religious ceremonies that honor this belief.
- Wedding Decor: Because of their beauty and symbolism, Shogetsu branches can be featured in wedding decorations, particularly in spring weddings, to add a touch of natural elegance.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Japanese Flowering Cherry is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Japanese Flowering Cherry is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Beauty: The Prunus 'Shogetsu', commonly known as the Japanese Flowering Cherry, is often associated with the aesthetic beauty of its blossoms. Its stunning display of flowers is symbolic of life's fleeting beauty.
- Transience of Life: Cherry blossoms have a short blooming period, which has become a symbol of the ephemeral nature of life, reminding us to appreciate the transient yet beautiful moments.
- Renewal and New Beginnings: The annual blooming cycle of the Japanese Flowering Cherry represents renewal and the beginning of spring, symbolizing new chapters and fresh starts in life.
- Purity and Innocence: The delicate white flowers of certain varieties of the Japanese Flowering Cherry are often associated with purity and innocence.
- Peace: In the context of international relations, Japanese Flowering Cherries are symbolic of peace and reconciliation, especially between Japan and countries it has gifted these trees to after World War II.
WaterThe Japanese Flowering Cherry, or 'Shogetsu', prefers consistent moisture, especially during dry periods. Water the tree deeply once a week, providing about 1.5 to 2 gallons of water. In hotter temperatures or during drought conditions, the frequency may need to increase to twice a week. Ensure the water penetrates the soil to reach the tree's root system, which encourages deep root growth. Overwatering or allowing the tree to sit in water can lead to root rot, so well-drained soil is also essential for plant health.
LightJapanese Flowering Cherry trees thrive in full sunlight, which means they need at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. The ideal spot for 'Shogetsu' is in an open area, away from larger trees or buildings that might cast too much shade. However, they can tolerate a little light afternoon shade, especially in hotter climates.
TemperatureThe Japanese Flowering Cherry can weather a range of temperatures but prefers temperate conditions. It can survive winter temperatures down to about -20 degrees Fahrenheit and is comfortable up to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal temperature for 'Shogetsu' is between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal bloom and growth.
PruningPruning the Japanese Flowering Cherry is important for shaping the tree and removing any dead or diseased wood. It is best to prune 'Shogetsu' after it has finished flowering in late spring to early summer. Thin out crowded branches to allow light to penetrate and air to circulate within the canopy. This should be done annually or every few years, depending on the tree's growth and shape.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Japanese Flowering Cherry prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. A mix of loam, compost, and perlite can ensure proper drainage and fertility.
RepottingJapanese Flowering Cherry trees do not require frequent repotting and should be transplanted only when they have outgrown their current space, typically every 3 to 5 years.
Humidity & MistingJapanese Flowering Cherry does best in moderate humidity and does not require any special humidity adjustment when planted outdoor in its preferred climate.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Not ideal for indoors; requires full sun and space to grow.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, well-drained soil, water regularly.
Hardiness zone
5-8 USDA
Life cycleThe Shogetsu Flowering Cherry, or Prunus 'Shogetsu', starts its life cycle with seed germination, which requires a stratification period to break dormancy. As a seedling, it gradually develops a root system and foliage with proper light, water, and soil conditions. The young cherry tree then enters a vegetative growth phase, where it focuses on leaf and branch development, typically requiring several years to mature and become structurally robust. During early spring, the mature Shogetsu Cherry enters its reproductive stage, producing large, double blush-pink flowers that attract pollinators for fertilization. After flowering, it sets fruit in the form of small cherries, which often attract birds and wildlife, assisting in seed dispersal. As the tree ages, it may undergo cycles of growth, flowering, and fruiting for many years, provided it receives appropriate care and is not affected by environmental stress or disease.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-early summer
The most popular method to propagate the 'Shogetsu' Cherry tree is by grafting, a technique best performed in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. This involves carefully cutting a stem from a healthy 'Shogetsu' Cherry, ideally with several buds on it, which is known as a scion, and attaching it to a rootstock of another cherry tree. The cut on both the scion and the rootstock should be slanted to maximize the cambium contact, which is the layer between the bark and wood that allows for the transmission of nutrients. The scion and the rootstock are then firmly bound together using grafting tape or a similar material to hold them in position while the graft heals, a process that can take several weeks. After the graft is successful, the new 'Shogetsu' Cherry tree will begin to grow and eventually bear flowers and fruit characteristic of the 'Shogetsu' variety.
