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 edit
More or less vase-shaped crown, densely covered in pink flowers before the leaves emerge in the spring.
Growing conditions edit
Full sun to medium shade, often does fine under high canopies. The plant prefers deep, fertile soils. Somethat drought tolerant after established.
Uses edit
As a specimen or patio shade tree. Forces well, so can also be grown for cut flowers.
Maintenance edit
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 edit
Generally grafted.
Harvesting edit
For forcing, cut branches just as the buds begin to expand.
Pests and diseases edit
Usually problem-free. See Prunus for a list of pests and diseases.
References edit
