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Praecox

Prunus incisa

Praecox is a good example of the hardy small ornamental cherry species Prunus incisa. It features delicate white flowers on bare branches.

Like many of this species it flowers in the winter, usually January - February, and brings a welcome splash of cheerful blossom at this dull time of the year.

In autumn the leaves take on red and orange hues.

Praecox flowering cherry trees for sale

All our pot-grown trees are grown for us to our specification by the Frank P Matthews nursery.

All pot-grown trees are suitable for planting out in the garden, some are suitable for growing in containers.

  • 11-year bare-root tree £46.50
    Medium size (2.5m-3.5m after 10 years)
  • 2Top-worked pot-grown tree £73.50
    Grown for us by Frank P Matthews nursery
    In a 11.5L pot
    Small size (1.5m-2.5m after 10 years)
    (45cm)
Pre-order now for delivery in September 2025

How to grow

You can prune to maintain the shape - after the flowers have finished. Praecox grows slowly, with a spreading habit as it ages.

This is a very hardy species, and can be grown in most situations, but plant in full sun for the best blossom.

History

The species Prunus incisa is named for its deeply incised leaves. It is also known as the Fuji cherry, since this species is found on the slopes of Mount Fuji.

 'Praecox' was developed in the UK, the name means precocious, reflecting its early-flowering period.

Praecox characteristics

  • Gardening skillBeginner
  • AwardsRHS AGM (former) - 1993
  • Attractive featuresAttractive flowersWinter colour
  • Growth habitSpreading / Flat-topped
  • Height after 10 years1.5m-2.5m / 5ft-8ft
  • SunlightPrefers full sun
  • PruningPrune after flowering
  • Growth rateSlow
  • Site conditionsOccasional drought
  • Flower colourWhite
  • Flower formSingle flower (5-8 petals)
  • Flowering monthFebruary
  • Leaf colourGreen
  • Leaf colour - autumnOrange / Red
  • Leaf/Flower sequenceFlowers appear first
  • Country of originUnited Kingdom
  • Annual cycleDeciduous

Similar varieties


How to choose a flowering cherry tree

We list more than 70 different flowering cherry trees. Choosing can be difficult! Our article explaining the different characteristics of flowering cherries might help narrow down the selection.

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