Hybrid Flowering Peach Prunus × persicoides 'Pollardii'
ABOUT
Prunus × persicoides 'Pollardii', commonly referred to as flowering cherry, is a deciduous tree known for its ornamental qualities. It typically showcases an impressive display of blooms in the spring. The flowers are usually a captivating pink or white color. They are frequently arranged in clusters along the branches of the tree, creating a stunning floral display that can be quite eye-catching. Following the flowering period, the tree bears simple leaves that exhibit a green hue throughout the growing season before transitioning to a range of autumnal colors as the colder months approach. The bark of the flowering cherry often has a smooth and shiny texture, providing an additional point of visual interest year-round.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Rosaceae.
Synonyms
Pollard's Hybrid Plum.
Common names
Prunus × persicoides 'Pollardii'.
ToxicityTo humans
Prunus × persicoides 'Pollardii', commonly known as Flowering Almond, is considered ornamental and not typically consumed by humans. Members of the Prunus genus, including Flowering Almonds, contain compounds like amygdalin, which can release cyanide when metabolized. If ingested in large quantities, parts of the plant, especially the seeds, can be toxic to humans. Symptoms of cyanide poisoning include difficulty breathing, dizziness, headache, nausea, rapid breathing, vomiting, and potentially a drop in blood pressure, loss of consciousness, or cardiac arrest in severe cases.
To pets
Flowering Almond can be toxic to pets if ingested, as it contains amygdalin, a compound that can convert to cyanide when metabolized. The seeds, leaves, and stems are the most toxic parts. Signs of poisoning in pets may include salivation, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, muscle spasms, difficulty breathing, lethargy, and convulsions. Severe cases of poisoning can lead to respiratory failure, coma, or death. Prompt veterinary care is essential if a pet has consumed any part of the Flowering Almond plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
15 feet (4.57 meters)
Spread
15 feet (4.57 meters)
Plant type
Tree
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Cultivar
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Adds aesthetic appeal to gardens and landscapes with its attractive flowers and foliage.
- Shade Provider: Can offer shade in garden settings when planted and grown as larger specimens.
- Pollinator Attraction: Flowers may attract bees and other pollinating insects, supporting local ecosystems.
- Seasonal Interest: Provides a visual interest throughout the seasons with spring flowers, summer foliage, fall color, and sometimes textural winter branches.
- Wildlife Habitat: Can provide food in the form of fruits for birds and other wildlife.
- Screening: When grown in groups, they can act as a natural privacy screen or windbreak.
- Low Maintenance: Often requires minimal care once established, making it suitable for various landscape situations.
- Cultural Significance: Depending on the region, may have particular cultural or historical significance that adds value to a landscape.
- Soil Erosion Control: The root systems can help stabilize soil, preventing erosion on slopes or in certain garden areas.
- Variety of Uses: Suitable for mixed borders, specimen planting, or can be trained as hedges depending on pruning and care.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Intricate Woodwork: The hard, dense wood of Prunus persicoides can be used for creating detailed and fine woodwork, such as inlays and decorative pieces.
- Photography: The beautiful blossoms of this hybrid are often used as a stunning backdrop or subject for photographers, especially in portrait and nature photography.
- Educational Tool: Botany students may study the Prunus persicoides as an example of plant hybridization and the characteristics of interspecific crosses.
- Landscaping Contrast: The deep red leaves provide excellent contrast in landscape designs, being used to break the monotony of green in gardens and parks.
- Urban Green Space: These trees contribute to urban green spaces, offering shade and improving the visual appeal of streetscapes and city parks.
- Floral Displays: Branches from Prunus persicoides, particularly when in bloom, are used in floral arrangements and displays, adding color and life to indoor settings.
- Ecological Studies: The plant can be a subject for research on pollinator preference and behavior due to its attractive flowers.
- Bonsai Crafting: With appropriate training and care, Prunus persicoides can be grown as a bonsai tree, making it a unique and interesting specimen for enthusiasts.
- Wildlife Shelter: The dense foliage of the tree can provide nesting sites and shelter for various bird species in urban and suburban settings.
- Seasonal Festivals: The flowering period of the Prunus persicoides is an occasion for seasonal celebrations in some cultures, similar to cherry blossom festivals.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Plum Tree is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Plum Tree is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Beginning: Being a flowering tree, Prunus persicoides 'Pollardii'—commonly known as the Flowering Plum—often symbolizes the beginning of spring and renewal because it is one of the first plants to bloom as the weather turns warmer.
- Beauty and Purity: The delicate blossoms of the Flowering Plum represent beauty and purity due to their soft, intricate petals and the tree's graceful form.
- Perseverance: The Flowering Plum is also a symbol of perseverance and hope. Its ability to withstand cold winters and bloom early in the spring demonstrates resilience and the promise of new growth after hardship.
- Transience of Life: As with many flowering trees, the brief blooming period of the Flowering Plum can symbolize the fleeting nature of life, reminding us to appreciate beauty and live in the present moment.
- Renewal and Rebirth: Since the Flowering Plum is one of the first to bloom after winter, it is often associated with rebirth and the fresh start that comes with the changing of seasons.
WaterFor the Hybrids Flowering Almond, it's important to water deeply once a week, providing 1-2 gallons per session for established plants, especially during the growing season and dry spells. Newly planted specimens may need watering 2-3 times a week until they're well established. Always check the soil moisture before watering; it should be moist but not waterlogged. In winter, reduce watering since the plant requires less moisture during dormancy.
LightHybrids Flowering Almond thrives in full sun exposure, meaning at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. The ideal spot would be a south-facing location that receives ample light. It can tolerate partial shade but will flower best in full sun.
TemperatureThe Hybrids Flowering Almond requires temperatures between 60-75°F to thrive, but it can tolerate winter chill down to about -10°F. The optimal growing conditions are within this temperature range, while extreme heat above 85°F might stress the plant.
PruningPruning the Hybrids Flowering Almond is necessary to maintain its shape and encourage healthy growth. Prune after flowering in late spring to early summer, removing dead or diseased branches and shaping the plant as needed. Pruning every year or every few years keeps the plant vigorous and blooming well.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Prunus × persicoides, commonly known as Purple-leaf plum, is well-draining loamy soil with a pH ranging from 5.5 to 7.5. Incorporate organic matter like compost to improve fertility and drainage.
RepottingPurple-leaf plums are typically outdoor landscape trees and do not require repotting. They are planted directly in the ground.
Humidity & MistingPurple-leaf plum trees are adaptable but prefer average atmospheric humidity levels; they do not require specific humidity conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light; prune to maintain size.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun; well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
5-8 USDA
Life cyclePrunus × persicoides 'Pollardii', commonly known as Hill Cherry, begins its life as a seed, typically germinating in the spring. Once germinated, the seedling grows rapidly, establishing a root system and producing its first set of true leaves. As a young sapling, the Hill Cherry focuses on increasing its stature and branching structure, with growth in both roots and foliage. During its juvenile phase, it may take several years before it is mature enough to produce flowers, which typically happens in early to mid-spring. Following pollination, usually by insects, the flowers develop into small stone fruits, the seeds of which may become new plants if conditions are favorable. Throughout its adult life, the Hill Cherry can go through cycles of flowering and fruiting annually, and with proper care and conditions, it can live for many decades, sometimes even a century or longer.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
Propogation: Prunus × persicoides 'Pollardii', commonly known as hybrid almond, is typically propagated by hardwood cuttings. This method is most popular for its simplicity and effectiveness. In late fall or early winter, when the tree is dormant, healthy, pencil-thick branches from the current or previous year's growth are cut into sections, each about 6 to 10 inches (15 to 25 centimeters) long. The bottom cut is made just below a bud, and the top cut is made just above a bud to ensure the best chance for rooting. The cuttings are then dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development and are planted in a well-draining rooting medium. They require consistent moisture and a period of dormancy before showing signs of growth and rooting in the spring.
