Prunus Snow Fountain Cherry: A Beautiful Ornamental Tree for Your Landscape

Are you looking for a stunning ornamental tree that will add beauty and flair to your landscape? If so, look no further than the Prunus Snow Fountain Cherry! This eye-catching tree boasts cascading branches of delicate pink and white blossoms in the spring, followed by lush green foliage in the summer and bright red leaves in the fall. In this blog post, we'll take an in-depth look at the Prunus Snow Fountain Cherry, exploring its history, growing requirements, and how to care for it properly.

History

The Prunus Snow Fountain Cherry is a relatively new cultivar developed in Japan. It is a member of the Rosaceae family and is closely related to other flowering trees such as apple, peach, and plum. The Snow Fountain Cherry was first introduced to the United States in the 1980s and quickly gained popularity among landscapers and gardeners due to its striking appearance.

Appearance

The most striking feature of the Prunus Snow Fountain Cherry is its cascading branches of pink and white flowers that bloom in the spring. The flowers are small, measuring only about one inch in diameter, but they grow in dense clusters along the branches, creating a stunning display. As the flowers begin to fade, the tree's lush green foliage emerges, providing shade and beauty throughout the summer months. In the fall, the leaves turn a brilliant red, adding even more color to your landscape.

Growing Requirements

If you're considering adding a Prunus Snow Fountain Cherry to your landscape, it's important to understand its growing requirements. This tree prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It can tolerate some shade, but it will not bloom as profusely in shady areas. The Snow Fountain Cherry is hardy in USDA zones 5-8, so it can thrive in most parts of the United States.

Planting

When planting your Prunus Snow Fountain Cherry, choose a location that receives full sun and has well-drained soil. Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball of the tree and just as deep. Place the tree in the hole and backfill with soil, making sure to tamp down the soil around the roots to remove any air pockets.

Watering

The Prunus Snow Fountain Cherry requires regular watering, especially during the first few years after it is planted. Water deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather conditions. Be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.

Fertilizing

Fertilize your Prunus Snow Fountain Cherry once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for application rates.

Pruning

To maintain the beautiful shape of your Prunus Snow Fountain Cherry, it's important to prune it regularly. Prune in late winter or early spring, before the tree begins to bud. Remove any dead or diseased branches, and trim back any crossing branches to promote good airflow and prevent disease. Be careful not to prune too much, as this can reduce the number of flowers the tree produces.

FAQs

1. How tall does a Prunus Snow Fountain Cherry grow?

A fully grown Prunus Snow Fountain Cherry can reach a height of 12 to 15 feet and a spread of 10 to 12 feet.

2. When does the Prunus Snow Fountain Cherry bloom?

The Prunus Snow Fountain Cherry typically blooms in late April or early May, depending on your location and weather conditions.

3. Is the Prunus Snow Fountain Cherry susceptible to any diseases or pests?

Like all trees, the Prunus Snow Fountain Cherry is susceptible to certain diseases and pests. Some common problems include powdery mildew, black knot, aphids, and spider mites. Regular pruning and good tree care practices can help prevent these issues.

4. Can the Prunus Snow Fountain Cherry be grown in a container?

While it is possible to grow a Prunus Snow Fountain Cherry in a container, it may not thrive as well as it would in the ground. If you do choose to grow it in a container, make sure the pot is large enough to accommodate the roots and that the soil is well-drained.

5. When is the best time to plant a Prunus Snow Fountain Cherry?

The best time to plant a Prunus Snow Fountain Cherry is in the spring, after the last frost has passed. This will give the tree plenty of time to establish its root system before the hot summer months arrive.


If you're looking for a beautiful ornamental tree that will add color and beauty to your landscape, look no further than the Prunus Snow Fountain Cherry. This stunning tree boasts cascading branches of delicate pink and white blossoms in the spring, followed by lush green foliage in the summer and bright red leaves in the fall. With proper care and maintenance, your Prunus Snow Fountain Cherry will thrive and provide beauty and enjoyment for years to come.