Prunus 'Okame'

Prunus 'Okame'

Okame Cherry
Binomial:	Prunus x incamp
Variety:	cv. 'Okame'
Type:	Small tree
Light requirements:	Full sun to part shade
USDA Hardiness Zone:	6-9
Pruning season:	Late winter (for forcing), or after bloom
Transplant:	Easily transplants
Bloom season:	Early spring
Pollination:	Insects
Shade cast:	Medium
Underplanting:	Can be underplanted

Okame cherry is a hybrid tree, which is one of the earliest cherries to bloom, and thus is often planted in parks and gardens. The name "Okame" is Japanese, referring to a woman who is often depicted in statues.

Description

More or less vase-shaped crown, densely covered in pink flowers before the leaves emerge in the spring.

Growing conditions

Full sun to medium shade, often does fine under high canopies. The plant prefers deep, fertile soils. Somethat drought tolerant after established.

Uses

As a specimen or patio shade tree. Forces well, so can also be grown for cut flowers.

Maintenance

A statue of Okame in Japan

Pruning for crossing branches should be done every 2-4 years. The tree is often grafted, so basal suckers should be removed if present.

Propagation

Generally grafted.

Harvesting

For forcing, cut branches just as the buds begin to expand.

Pests and diseases

Usually problem-free. See Prunus for a list of pests and diseases.