Prunus subhirtella ‘Pendula Rosea’ (often listed as Prunus pendula ‘Pendula Rosea’) is a spectacular, long-lived Japanese weeping ornamental cherry. It is prized for its cascading canopy of arching branches, which erupt in a profusion of delicate, clear-pink blossoms in late winter to early spring before the foliage emerges.
This deciduous, wide-spreading tree creates a tiered, fountain-like crown that cascades down gracefully, often forming a dramatic umbrella or bell-shaped habit. It is typically top-grafted onto a standard rootstock to achieve the desired weeping height.
Flowers: Deep pink buds open into clusters of small, pale blush-pink to clear-pink flowers.
Foliage: As blossoms fade, ovate, doubly-serrate dark green leaves emerge. In autumn, the foliage transitions to vibrant shades of bright yellow and orange before dropping.
Size: Grows at a moderate rate to a mature height of approximately 4 to 6 m (15–20 ft) with a similar spread.
Fruit: Produces sparse, small pea-sized black cherries that are inedible to humans but appreciated by local birds.
Light & Location: Performs best in full sun (at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight) for the heaviest bloom. Plant in a sheltered spot protected from harsh, drying winds.
Soil: Prefers moist, relatively fertile, and well-drained soil. It adapts to various soil textures as long as waterlogging is avoided.
Watering: Ensure a consistent moisture supply, especially during the first few seasons while the tree is establishing.
Spacing: Space trees about 3 to 4 m apart to allow for healthy airflow and canopy development.
Pruning: Little to no pruning is required. If necessary, trim dead, crossing, or diseased wood, or tidy up the lower “skirt” of branches right after flowering.
Pests & Disease: As with all members of the Prunus family, it can be susceptible to aphids, caterpillars, bacterial canker, and silver leaf. Maintain good airflow to prevent fungal wilt.
