SMALL CANOPY TREE; FEBRUARY’S PRETTIEST TREE; EARLIEST BLOOMING CHERRY; VISUALLY SPECTACULAR

Species: Prunus 'Okame'

Plant Size: 1.5” diameter trunk; Greater than 6 Feet Tall

Mature Height: 20-30 feet, with a spread of 15-25 feet

Growth Rate: Moderate; 13-24”/year

Sunlight:  Full Sun to Part Shade

Drought & Heat Tolerant: Moderate Tolerance

Description:, This stunning ornamental tree known for its early and abundant display of vibrant, pink flowers is certain to sooth your winter blues, with blooms starting in February. The Okame is the earliest blooming cherry tree, blooming three weeks before the popular Yoshino Cherry, providing an important source of nectar and pollen for emerging bees and other early pollinators when other flowering plants are not yet available. Once the flowering spectacle has passed, the Okame cherry tree transitions to a canopy of lush green leaves. This rounded crown of ovate, elliptical leaves with serrated edges, creates a visually pleasant, interesting and textured backdrop. In autumn, the leaves turn a rich bronze or fiery orange hue. This deciduous tree is a popular choice for urban landscapes and gardens due to its exceptional beauty, hardiness and relatively compact size.

Special Growing Considerations:  Beyond its striking aesthetics, the Okame is known for its adaptability and capacity to thrive in various climate conditions. It prefers full sun to partial shade and can grow in a wide variety of soil types. Preferring moist, well-drained soil, once established, the Okame can withstand moderate periods of reduced water availability.

Attributes: Early Flowering, Attractive, Ornamental, Compact Size, Deciduous, Hardy, Pollinator Friendly, Low Maintenance

Mono-Culture Risk: None

Invasive Risk: None