Prunus ‘Ukon’

‘Ukon’ is one of the most unusual Japanese flowering cherries, with large semi-double to double flowers in a creamy sulphur-yellow, sometimes tinged pink. In mid-spring the tree is laden with clusters of yellowish-white flowers that open from pink buds, a colour rarely seen in cherries. Holds an RHS Award of Garden Merit.

Vigorous, spreading tree to around 5 x 5m in 20 years. Young foliage emerges reddish-bronze, matures to mid-green, and turns a brilliant mix of red and purple-maroon in autumn. Introduced to Britain in 1905.

Plant in full sun in any well-drained soil. Minimal pruning, and only in midsummer to reduce silver leaf risk.

A proper specimen tree for a front garden, a lawn feature, or anywhere you’d like a conversation-piece cherry with yellow spring blossom.