PRUNUS incisa ‘Kojo-no-mai’

In March and April, PRUNUS incisa ‘Kojo-no-mai’ (dwarf flowering cherry tree) reaches its peak. Its wood does not grow straight, but rather in small zigzags. It is almost tortuous. The flowers, in the shape of white bells, slightly pinkish, appear during these months on its bare wood. Then, in fall, it has another moment of glory, when its green foliage turns fiery red (see photo). Then, when the leaves fall, its decorative wood will appear and will be its asset for the winter.
Yes, this flowering cherry tree can be described as a shrub. It will not exceed two meters in height or width, and that only after many years.

At the time of writing this article, we are also offering for sale on our nursery’s website the PRUNUS:

• PRUNUS maackii ‘Amber Beauty’
• PRUNUS mume ‘Beni-Chidori’
• Prunus serrula ‘Branklyn’
• PRUNUS serrulata ‘Royal Burgundy’
• PRUNUS ‘Tai-haku’
• PRUNUS x yedoensis
• PRUNUS x subhirtella ‘Autumnalis’
• PRUNUS x subhirtella ‘Autumnalis Rosea’

How to grow PRUNUS incisa ‘Kojo-no-mai’

Easy to grow, it will adapt to medium quality soil in the sun or partial shade. However, the more the plant gets direct sunlight, the more flowers it will develop.
Finally, PRUNUS incisa ‘Kojo-no-mai’ grows in dry, moderately moist or humid soils. It will do with any pH.

This dwarf flowering cherry tree is perfectly suited to growing in pots or even as a bonsai. It goes without saying that you can also plant it in a bed, no matter if you have a small or large garden.

History and Origin

First, the scientific name PRUNUS incisa comes from its deep incisions at the edge of its leaves. Second, it is also called the Fuji cherry, since it is very present on Mount Fuji.

Furthermore, the type species PRUNUS incisa is endemic to Japan and more particularly to the regions of Kanto, Chubu and Kinki.

In addition, PRUNUS incisa ‘Kojo-no-mai’ has been awarded the “Award of Garden Merit” by the RHS (Royal Horticultural Society).

Finally, in Japan, PRUNUS incisa is well-renowned as an ornamental tree. However, its wood has no industrial value.