Prunus × subhirtella ‘Autumnalis’

‘Autumnalis’ is the winter-flowering cherry, one of the most-loved small garden trees. Small semi-double pale pink flowers open intermittently in mild spells from November right through to March, bringing blossom to the garden through the darkest months.

The main flush typically comes between November and February, with odd sprays of flower whenever a warm spell arrives. Bronze-tinted young leaves follow the flowers in spring, settling to green through summer then turning warm yellow in autumn. Holds an RHS Award of Garden Merit.

Forms a small spreading tree around 6 to 8m tall, with an open airy habit. Plant in full sun in well-drained soil. Prune only in midsummer, to reduce silver leaf risk.

A firm favourite for a front garden where winter flowers can be seen from the house, or a lawn specimen for year-round character.