For many gardeners, a flowering cherry is the very picture of spring. One week the branches are bare; the next, they’re smothered in white or pink, with petals drifting down like confetti on the lawn. The display might last only a couple of weeks at its absolute peak, but it leaves a lasting impression every year. In a typical UK garden – whether in a village lane or a street in Ely – that brief, exuberant blossom makes the whole place feel brighter and more hopeful after winter.
Common name: Flowering cherry
Latin name: Prunus – Ornamental Flowering Cherries.
Size in UK gardens: Most garden cherries make small to medium trees around 3–8m tall and 3–6m across in 10–20 years, with compact forms for small gardens staying nearer 3–4m.
Best position: Full sun in an open but reasonably sheltered spot, so the tree gets at least 6 hours of light and the blossom isn’t stripped by strong spring winds.
Soil: Fertile, moist but well‑drained soil is ideal; flowering cherries tolerate a wide range of soil types, including loam, clay, sand and even chalk, provided it doesn’t stay waterlogged.
Flowering time: Most varieties flower in early to mid‑spring (March–April), some a little earlier or later; winter‑flowering selections like P. × subhirtella ‘Autumnalis’ can bloom from late autumn through to early spring.
Fragrance: Many flowering cherries have little or no noticeable scent; a few cultivars offer a light almond or honey fragrance, but they’re chiefly chosen for blossom and form.
Hardiness: Generally fully hardy across the UK (around RHS H6–H7); winter‑flowering cherries are noted as reliably hardy throughout the country.
Care level: Moderate – straightforward if planted in good soil with sun and shelter, but pruning needs a light, well‑timed touch to avoid disease problems.
The Simpson’s team raises the majority of our trees here at the nursery. For varieties outside our own production, we work with independent local growers we trust - all chosen for UK climate suitability.
Planting time: As container‑grown trees, flowering cherries can be planted in most months when the soil is workable and not frozen or waterlogged, with spring and early autumn usually giving the easiest establishment.
Watering: Water regularly through the first couple of growing seasons, especially in dry spells, so moisture penetrates deeply around the rootball. Once established in decent soil, most cherries cope with normal summer dryness but appreciate occasional deep watering during prolonged drought.
Feeding: On reasonable garden soil, an annual spring mulch of compost or well‑rotted manure over the root area is usually enough. On very poor or sandy ground, a light application of a balanced fertiliser in early spring can help younger trees put on strong growth.
Pruning: Keep pruning modest and well‑timed. Remove dead, diseased or crossing branches and make small shape adjustments in early to mid‑summer, when the risk of silver leaf and canker infection is lower; avoid heavy winter pruning.
Winter: Established trees are fully hardy and need no special protection. Young trees on light soils benefit from a winter mulch to protect roots, and it’s wise to stake new trees securely to prevent wind rock while they establish.
Availability is always changing, so please check with us if you have a particular variety in mind.
A much-loved cherry with a long spring performance of soft pink, semi-double flowers carried in generous numbers. The habit is neat and gently spreading, giving a romantic silhouette without any fuss. Ideal for lawns or border edges where the blossom can linger and be admired—reliably charming.
A narrow, columnar cherry that becomes a vertical pillar of blossom in spring. Pale pink flowers appear in clusters along upright branches, creating a clean, architectural effect. Perfect for tight spaces, lining paths, or adding height and spring spectacle without spread—very elegant and very useful.
A standout for double blossom: clear, rich pink flowers packed with petals, opening in full clusters for a genuinely showy display. The tree keeps a tidy habit, so the bloom sits beautifully on the framework. When it’s out, it’s unmissable—classic cherry drama with a confident flourish.
A winter-flowering cherry that brings precious colour when the garden is quiet. Small, pale blush blooms appear in gentle bursts on bare branches, offering a reassuring lift. The overall mood is delicate and poignant—perfect near a path or window where you’ll catch those unexpected flowers again and again.
A refined winter cherry with soft pink blossoms that open through the colder months, giving a rare display when little else is stirring. The flowers are small but plentiful, sprinkled along the stems like confetti. A lovely choice for winter enchantment close to the house—quiet magic when it’s most welcome.
The wild cherry, with airy white blossom that brightens the branches in spring and a naturally relaxed, woodland grace thereafter. It gives that authentic “English spring” feeling, especially in larger gardens. A fine tree for informal landscapes, soft shade, and a sense of natural charm.
A more ornamental wild cherry, producing double white flowers that look like small rosettes along the stems. In spring it feels beautifully “dressed”, with a fuller, bridal style of bloom. A good choice when you like the natural look of wild cherry, but want extra flourish.
A poised cherry with large, soft pink flowers opening in generous clusters for a classic spring picture. The habit is neat and slightly spreading, giving a handsome canopy over a lawn. It delivers colour with a calm, composed feel—pretty, but never fussy.
Frothy, richly pink double flowers make this cherry feel instantly celebratory. In full bloom the branches look festooned with pom‑poms, bringing a cheerful, eye-catching show. A great focal point near patios or paths, where the blossom can be enjoyed close-up.
A contemporary-looking cherry with buds opening in deeper, richer tones before softening as the flowers expand. The colour has real depth, giving a more refined, “designer” spring effect. Ideal if you want blossom that feels modern and distinctive, not sugary.
A charming cherry with clear pink blossom carried in generous clusters, giving a fresh and uplifting spring display. The tree keeps a tidy, ornamental outline that suits smaller gardens well. A dependable choice for classic cherry colour without the bulk.
Soft pink blossom sits neatly against well-spaced branches, creating a calm, elegant spring haze. It’s not flamboyant—more poised and balanced, with a gentle, traditional charm. A lovely pick for gardens that favour refinement over fireworks.
Pale blossom gathers in airy clusters, giving a light, cloud-like effect through the branches. There’s often a pleasing scent to go with the display, adding another layer of enjoyment. A romantic tree for lawns and patios, where its delicacy can be appreciated.
A playful cherry that lives up to its name, producing a frothy spring display with a lively, decorative look. The habit stays neat and ornamental, so it fits comfortably into smaller spaces. It brings a sense of fun to spring—bright, cheerful, and wonderfully showy.
A compact cherry with dainty blossom that arrives early, offering a precious lift at the start of spring. The flowers are small but beautifully placed, giving a refined, delicate effect. A smart choice for courtyards and front gardens where space is tight but spring impact still matters.
Soft pink blossom opens in neat clusters, creating a gentle, painterly haze rather than a loud splash. The tree holds a pleasing, well-proportioned shape, making it easy to place as a specimen. Ideal near paths and seating where the detail and colour can be savoured.
A composed cherry with blossom held in tidy clusters that read clearly along the branches. In spring it looks generous without being gaudy, and the outline stays balanced and graceful. A good choice for lawns, borders, or repeating in a line for a spring procession.
