Also known as Chinese Bush Cherry · Chinese Plumtree · Eastern Plum Tree
Japanese Bush Cherry (Prunus japonica) is a deciduous shrub known for its beautiful white or pink spring blossoms and small, edible red fruits.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Prefers full sun for best flowering, but tolerates light shade.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist, especially during dry spells.
Well-drained, fertile soil
50% intensity
Cold Hardy
25% intensity
Tolerates cold winters; requires a period of dormancy.
Light
25% intensity
Feed in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly, especially during dry periods and when establishing. Aim for consistently moist, but not waterlogged, soil. Reduce watering in winter when the plant is dormant.
Check soil moisture by feeling the top few centimeters; water when dry.
Prune after flowering in late spring or early summer to maintain shape and remove dead or crossing branches. Minimal pruning is usually needed. Heavy pruning can reduce the subsequent year's flower display.
Remove suckers from the base.
Propagate from seed sown in autumn, or by softwood cuttings taken in early summer. Semi-ripe cuttings can also be taken in late summer. Grafting is another common method for cultivar propagation.
Seed germination may be erratic.
Repot young plants every 2-3 years, and established plants every 4-5 years, or when root-bound. The best time is in early spring before new growth starts. Use a well-draining potting mix.
Trim roots slightly if necessary.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Japanese Bush Cherry (Prunus japonica)
Where Japanese Bush Cherry (Prunus japonica) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Prunus |
| Species | Prunus japonica |
Similar in genus Prunus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
