Prunus x yedoensis is an ornamental deciduous tree that is among the most popular for its spectacular flowering. Native to Japan, it is a natural hybrid between Prunus speciosa and Prunus pendula f. ascendens, developed and selected for the beauty of its flowering and elegance of bearing.

It typically reaches a height of 8–12 meters, with a broad, spreading, and slightly flattened crown that forms a rounded and harmonious shape. It grows at a moderate rate and tends to develop a well-balanced structure with horizontal or slightly ascending branches.

The leaves are simple and alternate, ovate-lanceolate in shape, with finely serrated margins. They are bright green during the growing season and take on warm autumn shades of yellow, orange, and red.

The flowering, which occurs between late March and early April, is one of the most striking features of this species: the white to pale pink flowers are slightly fragrant and bloom in pendulous corymbs before the leaves emerge, covering the branches entirely and creating a truly dramatic visual effect. The fruits—small black drupes when ripe—are generally few and have little ornamental value.

Prunus × yedoensis prefers full sun exposure, which enhances its abundant flowering, and grows best in fresh, fertile, well-drained soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. It tolerates winter cold down to around –15 to –20 °C, but is sensitive to prolonged drought and waterlogging.

It is widely used for ornamental purposes in parks, avenues, and gardens, both as a standalone specimen and in group plantings.

→ For a more compact alternative, discover Prunus ‘Accolade’, a variety with delicate pink flowers