Prunus serrulata 'ROYAL BURGUNDY' Japanese cherry, flowering cherry

Many believe the most beautiful ornamental cherry – the Sakura – is the famous ‘Kanzan’ or the original weeping ‘Kiku-shidare-zakura’. They are indeed magnificent, but imagine the excitement when, in Oregon in the early 1990s, a bud mutation appeared that offered the same qualities plus dark purple foliage! Frank Parks of Speer & Sons nursery recognized, preserved, and introduced it under the name Royal Burgundy. It bears fully double blossoms in deep pink colour, perfectly contrasting with young leaves that are dark burgundy to nearly black. In summer the intensity of the foliage softens, and more dark green leaves appear, but autumn brings another fireworks display – this time in brilliant shades of red. The leaves are narrowly ovate to elliptical, 7–12 cm long and 4–6 cm wide, with finely serrated margins that gave the species its name. The bark is initially very smooth and even glossy, grayish to brown, with characteristic horizontal striations formed by lenticels. These delicate bands encircle the trunk and lend it an elegant structure. With age the surface begins to peel and crack, giving the tree a decorative texture.

‘Royal Burgundy’ does not reach great heights, usually around six to eight meters, but its crown spreads widely and can cover up to six meters across. It is therefore unsuitable for small front gardens or narrow urban plots, where it would feel cramped. It shows best as a solitary specimen on open lawn, where its broad canopy can fully develop, or in parks and avenues, where it creates a festive backdrop. Combined with trees bearing white blossoms in spring and green foliage, it offers a perfect counterpoint. And if you want the most colourful autumn, plant it alongside trees whose leaves turn golden or orange, such as silver maples or European beeches.

The Japanese cherry has requirements similar to most ornamental cherries. It needs above all a sunny site, where its flowering and foliage colour can fully develop. The soil should be deep, well-drained but evenly moist, neutral to slightly acidic. It does not tolerate permanently waterlogged or overly heavy soils. Young trees must be staked for 3–4 years after planting, as the broad crown and relatively shallow root system can be vulnerable to strong winds. During this period, do not allow turf to grow directly over the roots. Watering is important especially for young trees during dry spells, though otherwise rainfall is sufficient. Fertilization is not necessary, but an annual spring application of organic matter is possible. Pruning is not often recommended but if required, it is best done in summer to avoid infections. The Japanese cherry is not suitable for long-term container cultivation – it needs open soil for its strong roots to spread. It may produce small fruits that are non-toxic but inedible and of no ornamental value. Keep in mind that cherries have shallow roots which, once thickened, may rise slightly above the soil or lawn surface, making them unsuitable near dry-laid paths or pavings. Hardiness is around –29 °C (USDA zone 5).

Last update 18-01-2009; 20-11-2025