The perennial ornamental Higan cherry tree, Prunus x subhirtella, is often the perfect addition to your garden. With its bright flowers in spring, dark green foliage in the summer months, explosive fall colors, and attractive red bark, the tree provides plenty of visual interest year-round. History of the Higan Cherry Tree The Higan cherry tree is native to Japan and is one of over a dozen species of pink weeping cherry. These trees are valued for their aesthetic beauty, but they do not bear edible fruits. It was one of the first types of cherry blossom trees to be introduced to Europe and the United States in the mid-to-late 19th century. The Higan cherry tree, along with other weeping species of cherry blossom trees, has become an important cultural symbol of spring in the regions of Japan and the United States where it was introduced. Strolling under the trees in March and April to admire the flowers has become a common practice in both regions. Washington, D.C. The National Cherry Blossom Festival is held and commemorates the city's receipt of the cherry blossom tree as a gift from Tokyo in 1912. Higan cherry trees are especially prized for their aesthetic value due to the shape of their flowers. The thousand-year-old Higan weeping cherry tree located in Fukushima Prefecture was designated a national treasure in 1922 and is considered one of the three largest cherry trees in Japan.
Characteristics of the Higan cherry tree There are many varieties, the most famous being the upright 'Autumnalis', known for its double pink flowers, and 'Pendula' which is a very distinctive weeping cultivar. The Higan weeping cherry tree blooms in mid to late April with light pink flowers that are about ½ inch to an inch in diameter. The flowers are semi-double, whole flowers are borne in groups of four to eight flowers. Higan cherry trees display stunning pink and white blossoms in the spring, but they maintain visual interest year-round. In the summer months, it culminates in dark green leaves that gradually turn yellow and orange during the fall. In winter, its bark appears dark red. Higan's cherry is a medium-sized tree that can reach an average of thirty feet in height. Size and spacing The Higan cherry tree can grow to twenty to thirty feet in height at maturity. Its spread is usually fifteen to thirty feet. Since Higan cherries are such a broad classification of plants, you'll want to do your research on which type of Higan cherry will do best when you consider growing it. Do you have enough room for a weeping variety, or should you go with a taller tree? Do you have enough sun in a particular location to make the Higan cherry tree worth it? The blossoms of the Higan cherry tree are pollinated by bees, birds, butterflies, or other pollinators. Tree care sunshine Higan cherry trees can grow in full sun or partial shade. However, the shade will affect the flowering percentage of the tree. More shade means fewer flowers in the spring. The most intense blooms are caused by at least four hours of direct sunlight per day.
Water Higan cherry trees should be watered deeply after planting until they have established roots. Water should also be given during periods of drought or drought. If you're concerned about keeping the soil moist, adding a 3-inch-thick layer of organic cover should help. Be sure to give the tree trunk at least six inches of organic cover. Pruning Higan cherry trees don't need much pruning to stay healthy. However, diseased, dead, or dying branches should always be pruned as soon as a problem is noticed. Any shaping or pruning done to improve air circulation should be done after the tree has flowered. Disease and care Cherry trees can be susceptible to root and crown rot due to the presence of the organism in most types of soil. Be on the lookout for rotting spots along the branches as well as knot diseases. Dry powdery mildew and leg ulcers may also occur. These trees do well in a variety of garden environments provided they receive plenty of sunlight. While they can thrive in partial shade, a lack of sunlight will affect their blooms in the spring, making them appear less 'full' than they should be. They prefer fertile, well-drained clay soil.
What does the fruit taste like? The fruit of the Higan cherry tree is inedible to humans but perfectly edible to squirrels and other small animals that help the tree spread its seeds. However, the leaves and blossoms of cherry blossom flowers are edible. Sakurayo is a clear herbal tea made from cherry blossoms that are pickled with salt and steeped in hot water. It is traditionally served at weddings and symbolizes a happy beginning. Sakura mochi is also a popular dessert in Japan during the springtime. Rice cake stuffed with red bean paste wrapped in cherry blossom paper. Health benefits of cherries Although the fruit of the Higan cherry tree may be inedible, many other species are not. Some of the health benefits of cherries include: It can protect heart health Packed with nutrients Exercise can promote recovery Rich in antioxidants: Some experts believe that the darker the color of the fruit, the higher the level of antioxidants. 
Cherries fall into this category. They get their deep red color from the high levels of anthocyanins they contain. Anthocyanins are antioxidants that have many health benefits, including being linked to a reduced risk of heart disease. Cherries have anti-inflammatory properties as well as antioxidants. Studies show that the combination of the two works to aid muscle recovery after exercise to reduce pain. The Higan cherry tree is an elegant, low-investment ornamental that can add instant springtime beauty to your garden. Its flowers have been used in artwork for centuries as symbols of spring and the delicate beauty of life. Add this beautiful tree to your garden today! Higan cherry blossoms must be pollinated, especially by bees. Higan cherry trees average twenty to thirty feet in height, with a spread of fifteen to twenty feet.
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