Prunus okame

Prunus Okame, also known as Japanese Cherry Okame, is a stunning, very early flowering cherry that was raised by Captain Collingwood Ingram in the 1940s.

This stunning little tree has dainty dark green foliage which emerges soon after the profuse display of rich pink flowers in late March and early April. It is one of the earliest flowering cherry trees, and at Barcham has become a surefire signal that spring is finally on its way.

The cherry leaves, though small, are delicate, transitioning from a deep green hue to vibrant oranges and reds during autumn. Prunus Okame trees are small at maturity, producing a crown which is fairly narrow and columnar. It is a pretty little cherry tree which is derived from Prunus incise and won the Award of Garden Merit in 2002.

Like most cherries, this small tree is best suited to being planted in free-draining soil as it does not like to get its ‘feet’ wet! Prunus Okame makes a welcome addition to any planting scheme which aims to bring early colour with its prompt display of flowers in the spring.

The uniform and compact size of Prunus Okame makes it an excellent option for small gardens and parks.

Mature height 3-7m