Cherry blossom is one of those sights that genuinely shifts the mood of a garden. For a week or two, the tree becomes the star — branches covered in soft flowers that glow in early sunlight and look magical against spring skies. Even in a fairly new garden, a cherry makes the space feel established, almost as if it’s always been there. And because it’s such a clear seasonal moment, you notice it more: that first warm day, the first bees, the first time you sit outside with a coat unzipped. It’s pure spring, bottled in a tree.



Common name: Cherry tree.
Latin name: Prunus avium and Prunus cerasus).
Size in UK gardens: Typically 3–8m depending on variety; many can be kept smaller with pruning, and some are naturally compact.
Best position: Full sun or light shade in a sheltered spot with reasonable airflow.
Soil: Fertile, well-drained soil; avoids waterlogging and extreme drought.
Flowering time: Spring (often March–May, depending on variety).
Fragrance: Usually lightly scented or not noticeably scented, depending on variety.
Hardiness: Generally hardy in most UK gardens once established.
Care level: Low to moderate – easy with good siting; occasional pruning and basic aftercare keep it thriving.
Rather than travelling halfway across Europe, our mimosa trees are grown on site by the Simpson’s team. They’re toughened to local conditions, properly potted, and ready to get growing the moment you plant them.
Planting time: As container-grown plants, cherries can be planted in most months when the ground isn’t frozen or waterlogged; spring and early autumn are usually easiest.
Watering: Water well in the first 1–2 seasons, and during dry spells in summer; newly planted trees need steady moisture to establish.
Feeding: A spring mulch of compost or well-rotted manure is usually enough; a light balanced feed can help on poorer soils.
Pruning: Light pruning as needed; best done in summer for Prunus to reduce disease risk.
Winter: Generally hardy; good drainage and shelter from harsh winds keep it looking its best.
Availability is always changing, so please check with us if you have a particular variety in mind.
When the rest of the garden is still rubbing its eyes, Acacia dealbata is already wide awake – cloaked in soft, silver foliage and clouds of golden pom‑poms. It’s the archetypal mimosa: fast‑growing, generously scented and guaranteed to turn heads on a bright February day.
Typical Sizes We Stock: 10 Litre and 5 Litre Pots.
‘Purpurea’ adds a touch of drama: new leaves flush rich purple before maturing to misty grey‑green, so even out of flower it’s a picture. Come late winter, the yellow blossom lights up the dusky foliage and the whole tree looks as if it’s been dusted with sunshine.