Nanking White Cherry

The White Nanking cherry is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the rose family, Rosaceae. It is native to China, Korea, and Mongolia, and is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks around the world.

The White Nanking cherry is a small to medium-sized shrub that typically grows to a height of 6-10 feet (1.8-3 m) and a spread of 4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 m). It has an upright, spreading habit and a dense, twiggy growth pattern. The leaves are oval-shaped, finely toothed, and glossy green in color, measuring about 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) long. The flowers are white, pink, or pale pink, and bloom in early spring, before the leaves emerge. The flowers are followed by small, red, edible fruit that ripen in early summer.

The White Nanking cherry is a hardy plant that is tolerant of a wide range of soil types and growing conditions, although it prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It is relatively easy to care for and requires minimal pruning to maintain its shape and size.

Overall, the White Nanking cherry is a beautiful and versatile shrub that is prized for its ornamental value and attractive flowers and fruit. It is a great choice for a wide range of landscape settings, including gardens, borders, and hedgerows.

Latin Name: Prunus tomentosa 'Nanking'

Site and Soil: Nanking White Cherry plants prefer full sun to partial shade and well-draining, moist soil. They can tolerate various soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.

Pollination Requirements: Nanking White Cherry is self-fertile, meaning it doesn't require a pollinator to produce fruit. However, cross-pollination can increase fruit yield.

Hardiness: These cherry plants are hardy in USDA zones 3-8, withstanding temperatures as low as -30°F (-34°C) with proper winter protection.

Bearing Age: Nanking White Cherry plants typically start bearing fruit 2-3 years after planting.

Size at Maturity: At maturity, Nanking White Cherry plants can reach a height of 6-10 feet and a spread of 5-8 feet. Regular pruning can keep them smaller and more manageable.

Bloom Time: These cherry plants produce beautiful, fragrant white flowers in early spring before the leaves emerge.

Ripening Time: The fruit of Nanking White Cherry ripens in early summer, around late June to early July.

Yield: Nanking White Cherry plants can produce 15-30 lbs. of fruit per plant when mature.

Pests & Diseases: These cherry plants are relatively pest and disease-resistant, but they can still suffer from aphids, caterpillars, and Japanese beetles. Birds can also be a problem and may require netting to protect the fruit.

USDA Zone: Nanking White Cherry plants are hardy in USDA zones 3-8.