Prunus Okame

2-3 Litre Pot

• RHS Award of Garden Merit
• Position: Full sun
• Soil: Moist, well drained
• Growth Rate: Average
• Flowering Period: Spring
• Hardiness: H6
• Eventual Height: 8 – 12m
• Eventual Spread: 4 – 8m

Prunus × ‘Okame’, holder of the prestigious RHS Award of Garden Merit,  is one of the earliest and most enchanting ornamental cherry trees to bloom, heralding the arrival of Spring with a profusion of pink flowers. This  deciduous tree is a hybrid between Prunus incisa and Prunus campanulata, known for its early flowering — often blooming as Winter fades, before many other trees awaken.

The single, pink blooms appear in late Winter to early Spring, clustered densely along bare branches, creating a brilliant cloud of colour and a nectar-rich haven for early pollinators. As the season progresses, the bronze-tinted new foliage emerges, maturing to a glossy green before turning rich shades of orange, red, and bronze in autumn.

Growing to a manageable height of around 8–12 metres it has a graceful, vase-shaped crown that makes it ideal for smaller gardens, courtyards, and urban landscapes, or as a stunning specimen tree.

Tolerant of a range of soils and conditions, and offering multi-season interest, it is a wonderful choice for gardeners seeking both early-season drama and lasting ornamental appeal.

How to care for your Prunus Okame

• Soil: Prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. Amend the soil with organic matter, such as compost or peat moss, to improve drainage and soil fertility.
• Watering: Water the plant regularly, especially during hot and dry weather, to prevent the soil from drying out. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
• Fertiliser: Typically does not require fertilisation, but can benefit from a slow-release fertiliser in early Spring. Avoid over-fertilising, as this can lead to excessive growth and decreased plant health.
• Pruning: Prune the shrub in late Winter or early Spring before new growth begins to maintain its shape and size. Remove any dead, diseased, or crossing branches, as well as any suckers that may emerge from the base of the plant.
• Sunlight: Thrives in full sun to partial shade. Avoid planting in areas with too much shade, as this can lead to poor growth and disease.
• Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as wood chips or bark, around the base of the plant to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

By following these tips, you can help ensure that your Prunus Okame thrives in your garden, providing year-round beauty and interest.