Prunus yedoensis Ivensii - Yoshino Cherry

Prunus x yedoensis 'Ivensii' is a variety of flowering cherry also known as the Yoshino cherry. It is a vigorous tree, yet of modest stature, prized for its ample trailing habit and its wonderful almond-scented flowering. Forming a floral cascade from early spring, it draws the eye again in autumn with its yellow-orange foliage. Hardy and low-maintenance regarding soil, this tree possesses a charming appeal.

Prunus x yedoensis is a hybrid obtained in Japan in 1864, by the cross-breeding of Prunus speciosa and Prunus subhirtella. All these small trees belong to the large family of Rosaceae. The cultivar 'Ivensii' was selected by Hillier & Sons, in Winchester, England, before 1929.

Prunus x yedoensis 'Ivensii' is generally grafted at the top of a straight stem. The height of an adult specimen will vary from 3 to 4 m depending on the height of this stem which forms the trunk. At the top of this trunk spreads an open crown that can reach 4 m in width, supported by horizontal main branches from which slender trailing twigs emerge. It is a small deciduous tree of fairly rapid growth. Its brown-grey bark is smooth. Flowering occurs in March-April, earlier or later depending on the region, on the bare twigs. The flowers, gathered in small clusters of 5 to 6, suspended by a short peduncle, are single. They emerge from pale pink buds, then bloom into corollas with 5 petals, measuring 2.5 cm in diameter. The fragrant, nectar-rich flowers, are visited by bees and other pollinators. The deciduous foliage consists of alternate leaves, broadly ovate, measuring 6 to 12 cm in length, doubly toothed along the edges. The young leaves are very light green. Later, they turn medium green, then golden yellow to orange-yellow in autumn before falling.

Its ample and divinely graceful silhouette makes this flowering cherry from Japan a magnificent subject to plant in isolation. Dazzling from the first fine days of spring, this low-maintenance small tree is suitable for small to medium-sized gardens. It will be particularly highlighted at the centre of a perennial bed, where the flowering will take over from spring to summer. Plant around its base hardy geranium ground cover and late tulips, for example. Alternatively, let the lovely Clematis heracleifolia 'Pink Dwarf' spread as a carpet beneath its branches. It is perfectly hardy and can be cultivated in many regions, but dislikes compact and clayey soils or dry situations. A carpet of white/blue bluebells would look stunning at its base.