Kiku-shidare-zakura

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Kiku-Shidare-Zakura is one of the prettiest of the weeping Japanese flowering cherry trees, and is well-suited to the UK climate.

The flowers are an intense deep pink colour, and borne in great profusion. Kiku-Shidare-Zakura flowers typically have far more petals per flower than the 25-50 of the more common "double" flowered varieties. The Japanese word "kiku" means "chrysanthemum", and is often used to denote a variety which has the potential for more than a hundred petals per flower. It is this mass of petals which gives the blossom of Kiku-Shidare-Zakura such vibrancy and impact.

The tree remains compact, making it a good choice for planting in a small lawn or front garden.

If you are looking for a classic pink weeping blossom tree, this is a good choice.

Growing and Training

The key to the intense blossom colour is the number of petals in each flower. This can vary considerably, and is strongly influenced by the local climate and soil conditions - so although this variety will grow in most situations, it is definitely worth finding a sheltered sunny spot with good soil to get the most intense blossom.

You do not need to do anything to encourage the weeping habit - it will happen quite naturally as the tree grows.

It is generally best to tie the leader to a tall bamboo cane for the first few years. In the case of 2-year pot-grown examples you can cut back the tip by 3-5cm after planting, this will encourage more shoots to develop.

You can also progressively clear the lower stem of branches, to help show off the weeping habit - if you decided to this it is best in late spring, removing a few each year (not all at once).

As with many weeping ornamental trees, the pendulous effect is enhanced when the tree is "top-worked" or grafted high on a length of clear stem.

History

Kiku-Shidare-Zakura is frequently confused with Cheal's Weeping Cherry which was developed in the UK in the early 20th century. Although closely related, they are not the same. We sell the original Japanese form which has a slightly less exaggerated weeping habit, and more profuse blossom.

Kiku-shidare-zakura characteristics

• Gardening skillAverage
• PruningDo not prune
• Country of originJapan

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