Higan cherry Prunus × subhirtella

Names

• Family

  Rosaceae

• Synonyms

  Higan Cherry, Spring Cherry, Winter Flowering Cherry, Rosebud Cherry

• Common names

  Cerasus subhirtella, Prunus pendula, Prunus itosakura, Prunus itosakura var. ascendens, Prunus subhirtella var. ascendens, Prunus subhirtella var. pendula.

Toxicity

• To humans

  The plant commonly known as the ornamental cherry or winter flowering cherry can be toxic to humans if ingested. The primary toxic components are cyanogenic glycosides, which are present in the leaves, twigs, bark, and seeds of the plant. When these plant parts are broken down during digestion, they can release hydrogen cyanide, which is a potent poison. Symptoms of poisoning can include headache, dizziness, confusion, vomiting, difficulty breathing, and in extreme cases, seizures, coma, or even death due to respiratory failure. It is generally uncommon for humans to consume enough of the plant to cause severe poisoning, but caution should still be taken to avoid ingesting any parts of the plant.

• To pets

  The ornamental cherry or winter flowering cherry poses the same risks to pets as to humans, as the toxic compounds, namely cyanogenic glycosides, are also harmful to animals. If pets ingest parts of this plant, they can experience symptoms similar to those in humans, including vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, weakness, and in severe cases, respiratory failure, seizures, and potentially death. It is particularly important to prevent pets from chewing on the twigs, leaves, bark, or pits of the fruit, as these contain the highest concentrations of the toxic compounds. Owners should seek veterinary attention if they suspect their pet has ingested any part of the ornamental cherry plant.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  Pink

• Height

  15-25 feet (4.6-7.6 meters)

• Spread

  15-25 feet (4.6-7.6 meters)

• Plant type

  Tree

• Hardiness zones

  5

• Native area

  Japan

General Benefits

• Aesthetic Appeal: The Prunus × subhirtella, commonly known as the Higan cherry, adds visual interest to landscapes with its delicate pink or white blossoms.
• Seasonal Interest: The Higan cherry provides spring blossoms and often features attractive fall foliage, offering multiple seasons of interest.
• Wildlife Habitat: Bees and other pollinators are attracted to Higan cherry blossoms, providing food resources and promoting biodiversity.
• Shade Provision: As a medium-sized tree, the Higan cherry can offer shade for smaller plants, as well as a cooling effect in gardens and parks.
• Cultural Significance: Cherry blossoms have cultural importance in many societies, often symbolizing the fleeting nature of life and are celebrated in various festivals.
• Urban Tolerance: The Higan cherry can tolerate urban conditions like pollution and confined soil spaces, making it suitable for cityscapes and street plantings.

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 × subhirtella, commonly known as Higan Cherry, can be used in bonsai cultivation, providing an ornamental and miniature representation of full-sized cherry trees.
• The wood of Higan Cherry is occasionally used in woodworking projects for creating decorative items, due to its fine grain and potential for a smooth finish.
• The blossoms of Higan Cherry may be used to create natural pink dyes for fabrics, offering a subtle hue derived from the petals.
• Higan Cherry branches can be used in floral arrangements and ikebana, the Japanese art of flower arranging, because of their visually appealing blossoms and structure.
• During spring, Higan Cherry flowers are sometimes incorporated into seasonal festivals and celebrations in Japan as a symbol of renewal and life.
• Dried Higan Cherry petals are occasionally used in craft projects, such as handmade paper or potpourri, to add fragrance and decoration.
• Leaves of the Higan Cherry may be used in creating leaf prints or nature-inspired art projects, especially in educational settings.
• The tree itself is planted as a living memorial or commemorative tree in parks and gardens, growing as a symbol of remembrance or honor.
• Photographers and artists often use Higan Cherry trees as a subject or backdrop for spring-themed photographs and paintings due to their picturesque blossoms.
• In certain regions, Higan Cherry trees can be cultivated to provide shade in smaller gardens where their modest size doesn't overwhelm the landscape.

Feng Shui

The plant Prunus × subhirtella, commonly known as the winter flowering cherry or Higan cherry, can be utilized in Feng Shui by planting it in the garden to enhance positive chi, especially during its blooming season when it symbolizes new beginnings and renewal. Its graceful form and delicate pink blossoms can help to soften sharp angles or enhance the wood element in your garden's Bagua area, promoting balance and harmony.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The winter flowering cherry is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Delicate beauty: Prunus × subhirtella, or the Higan cherry, blooms with delicate pink or white blossoms, symbolizing fine and subtle beauty.
• Impermanence of life: The Higan cherry's brief blooming period is often associated with the transient nature of life, echoing the Japanese cultural concept of "mono no aware" which is an awareness of the impermanence of things.
• Spring and renewal: With its blossoming typically coinciding with the onset of spring, the Higan cherry embodies the principles of rebirth and new beginnings.
• Educational achievements: In Japan, the timing of the Higan cherry blossoms often coincides with the start of the school year and graduation season, making it a symbol for educational accomplishments.