Ciliegio Giapponese

Class

Dicotyledons

Division

Angiospermae

Family

Rosaceae

Order

Rosales or Rosali

Genus

Prunus

Species

serrulata

Description

Deciduous perennial ornamental tree with dense, expansive foliage. The luxuriant spring blossoms, bearing flowers in inflorescences of different pinkish hues in relation to the numerous varieties, lend high landscape value to both private and public green areas.

Varietal description

Medium-sized tree of Japanese origin, with many varieties, much appreciated for its abundant spring flowering. Neat habit with vase-shaped or open fan-shaped crown, numerous, irregular branches. Deep green leaves turning yellow in autumn. Excellent adaptability to various soil types and growing environments, including urban climates. Requires sunny exposure, partial tolerance of shady areas. Develops a root above and deep in the soil, with many secondary roots; prefers clay and sandy soils, but grows well in all soil types. It does not tolerate constantly moist soil. Rustic and multifunctional tree, suitable for park areas, small urban avenues, gardens, roof gardens. Has good drought resistance and adaptability to coastal areas. Resistant to pathogens and requires periodic pruning, which must be oriented towards maintaining the shape while respecting the architecture of the foliage.

curiosity and special features

Heralding the beginning of spring and symbolising life, happiness and good health, the flowers of the Prunus serrulata Sakura are considered national flowers of Japan where, according to the 'hanami' tradition, there are numerous festivals ('Sakura matsuri') during which people gather to observe their spectacular blooms.

Origin and Diffusion

The native range of this species extends from eastern and southern China to Korea. It reached Europe at the end of the 19th century where it was the subject of numerous crosses to obtain new varieties for ornamental use.

Leaf

toothed, oblong

Flowering period

The flowering, with its elegant and numerous flowers gathered in raceme-like inflorescences, lasts from early spring to late spring for between 15 and 25 days, giving high ornamental and decorative value to your green spaces.

Leaf color

unicolour In a scenic autumn foliage the colour tones of the foliage turn to yellow-red.

Plant height

The height of the plant varies from 5 to 15 m depending on the type of cultivation. In general, the Japanese cherry tree represents a second-size tree.

Lifespan

Polyennial deciduous species.

Suggested planting locations

Multifunctional tree, due to the size achieved and the developed habit it is suitable for use in open fields, terraces, outdoor pools

Stem/stem

The stem is woody with smooth brown bark.

Growth

Medium-vigorous Growth plant.

Plant habit

The developed habitus is erect with dense, open vase-like foliage.

branching

It has abundant main branching with assurgent branches.

pH

It prefers a soil pH between 6.0 and 7.0.

soil preparation

Before transplanting at the end of autumn, choose the most suitable site, in relation to the plant's needs, and use a spade to make the planting hole at least one third larger than the volume of roots or root ball, removing any weeds and bulky pebbles. It is advisable to bury specific organic or chemical granular fertiliser to provide the plant with nutrients in the early post-transplant phases.

sun exposure

For proper vegetative development and lush flowering expose the variety to full sun.

Use

Due to its striking flowering effect, it is suitable as a plant in:

Outdoor ornamental Outdoor Landscape Design Landscaping

Hardiness

It is highly rustic, shows moderate drought tolerance and is resistant to winter cold.

Soil/medium

It adapts to different types of soils as long as they are well drained, not compacted and rich in organic matter.

Maintenance

Easy cultivation and low management effort add further value.

cultivation tips

Here are some specific cultivation aspects to achieve better vegetative growth:

Balanced fertilisation Plant that adapts very well to cold winter climates, and also thrives in frozen soil conditions. Correct pruning

Indiscriminate pruning of the stem and branches by means of "pruning" not only leads to an alteration of the natural habitus of the plant, but also to a lower resistance to biotic and abiotic agents as well as to a greater danger of the entire specimen failing.

planting

Adopt an average density of 2500 plants/ha by choosing healthy specimens, free from abiotic and biotic stress conditions. Always identify the planting site in advance in relation to the growth conditions required by the species according to the principle of 'the right plant in the right place'.

Transplanting represents an important and delicate transfer phase for which it is advisable to prune the long, thin filaments of the smallest roots with a clean cut, using clean, sharp blades. Proceed by placing the root ball in the planting hole, previously dug and kept well moist, keeping it well compacted around the root and keeping the plant collar off the soil surface. To improve weed control, retain moisture and regulate the soil temperature, a layer of mulch can be spread on the soil near the trunk.

pruning

Carry out proper pruning of the most vigorous branches as well as small interventions to remove dried out or broken parts.

Reproduction/Propagation

Multiplication can be by seed, by layering or by cuttings.

Irrigation

After transplanting, assist the plant so that it can best develop its root system in the new site, keeping it at a constant humidity free of water stagnation and dryness. Afterwards, prevent water saturation conditions by watering in quantities with frequencies and doses also commensurate with the climatic trend during the different seasons. Drip-wing or furrow irrigation is recommended.

Fertilization

When preparing the soil for transplanting, carry out a background fertilisation by applying a balanced slow-release fertiliser specifically for ornamental plants to the soil. Following proper loosening, during the spring period distribute a balanced granular fertiliser for ornamental plants to the soil without exceeding doses and frequencies.

Edibility for humans

Non-edible ornamental Species.

advise 1

The agronomic characteristics of the cultivation nursery must also be possessed by the final planting site or storage nursery for plants purchased by the gardener and which he does not intend to use immediately after purchase. Water the plants well after planting so that the soil adheres to the roots.