Prunus x yedoensis is the most famous and most planted ornamental cherry tree in the world. Originating in Japan as a cross between Prunus speciosa and Prunus pendula.
'Somei-yoshino' is a clone from a single tree that was first recorded in Koishikawa Botanical Garden in 1775 and has been propagated by grafting all over the world ever since.
It is a small to medium sized deciduous tree that can handle cold winters and is the harbinger of spring with its wonderful displays of blossom.
The leaves are bronzy coloured to start with but turn dark green in summer and are around 6-10 centimeters long and 4-6 centimeters across and feature a serrated edge.
The beautifully fragrant flowers with five white or pale pink petals are produced before the leaves emerge and grow in clusters of five or six making for an intense display.
The fruits are not that palatable to humans, though birds find them to be a good source of food.
And contrary to popular myth they are not short lived and can survive over 50 years in good conditions.
Plant a Yoshino Cherry in the middle of your lawn for spectacular effect once a year in spring and lovely shade throughout summer.