Description

🌸 Prunus subhirtella var. pendula — Weeping Higan Cherry

Graceful, early‑flowering ornamental with a cascading, architectural form

The Weeping Higan Cherry is one of the most elegant ornamental cherries ever introduced, prized for its arching, fountain‑like canopy and its profuse early‑spring bloom. Before the leaves emerge, the tree becomes completely draped in soft light‑pink to nearly white blossoms, giving the appearance of fresh snowfall across its cascading branches. This early flowering habit is a defining characteristic of the species and makes it a standout specimen in any landscape.

Through summer, the tree carries glossy green foliage, which transitions to bright yellow in fall, adding a second season of color. Even in winter, the bare, sweeping branches maintain a sculptural presence, offering year‑round visual interest.

In maturity, Weeping Higan Cherry typically reaches 20–30 ft tall with a 15–25 ft spread, forming a broad, umbrella‑like canopy that moves beautifully in the wind. It performs best in sunny, open locations, prefers regular irrigation in sandy soils, and benefits from mulch extending to the canopy edge to protect its shallow roots.

Most specimens are grafted onto vigorous rootstock, ensuring a reliable weeping habit and faster establishment. While adaptable to many soils, it thrives when protected from turf competition and given space for its branches to sweep naturally toward the ground.

This is a tree chosen for impact—a centerpiece for large yards, parks, estates, and waterfront plantings where its movement and bloom can be fully appreciated.

Key Traits

• Early spring bloom with light pink to white flowers
• Graceful, cascading weeping habit
• Glossy green summer foliage; bright yellow fall color
• Strong visual presence even in winter
• Grafted form ensures reliable weep and vigor
• Prefers sun, open space, and consistent moisture in sandy soils
• Mature size: 20–30 ft tall, 15–25 ft wide
• Hardy to USDA Zone 4