Prunus Trees in New Zealand: Types, Care, and Growing Tips

Types of Prunus Trees

New Zealand gardens are home to a variety of Prunus species, each offering unique characteristics. Popular types include the Prunus cerasus (sour cherry), Prunus avium (sweet cherry), and the stunning Prunus serrulata (Japanese cherry). The Prunus lusitanica (Portuguese laurel) is also favoured for its evergreen foliage. Selecting the best Prunus for your NZ garden depends on your climate, soil type, and space availability.

Prunus Care Guide

Prunus trees, including cherries, plums, and apricots, are prized for their beautiful blossoms and, in many cases, edible fruits. Proper care ensures healthy growth, prolific flowering, and good fruit production.

Watering

• Provide regular watering during dry spells, especially for young trees.
• Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Fertilising

• Apply tree fertiliser or fruit tree fertiliser in in spring to promote healthy growth and flowering.
• Avoid excessive nitrogen which may encourage leafy growth at the expense of flowers.

Pruning

• Prune after flowering to shape the tree and remove dead or diseased branches.
• For fruiting varieties, thin branches to allow light and air penetration, improving fruit quality and reducing disease risk.

Pest and Disease Control

• Monitor for common pests like aphids, scale, and caterpillars.
• Watch for fungal diseases such as brown rot and powdery mildew; treat early with appropriate fungicides.
• Maintain good hygiene by removing fallen leaves and pruning debris.

Planting Prunus Trees

When it comes to planting Prunus trees, timing and location are crucial:

• The ideal planting time is during the winter months when the tree is dormant.
• Ensure the location receives plenty of sunlight, has well-draining soil, and has reasonable wind protection.
• Dig a hole twice as wide and just as deep as the root ball, and plant your tree, ensuring the graft union is above soil level.
• Firm in the tree and water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil around the roots.
• Scatter tree fertiliser across the soil surface after planting and repeat the application in spring of each year.
• The tree should be staked to afford additional support.

Can You Eat Prunus Fruit?

Yes, many Prunus species produce edible fruit. The genus Prunus includes cherries, plums, apricots, peaches, and almonds. Most commonly, cherries and plums from the Prunus genus are eaten fresh, cooked, or processed into jams, jellies, and desserts. However, not all Prunus fruits are edible. Some ornamental varieties produce small or bitter fruits that are not suitable for eating. Also, parts of the plant like the leaves, seeds, and pits can contain compounds like cyanogenic glycosides, which are toxic if consumed in large amounts. So, while many Prunus fruits are delicious and widely consumed, it’s important to identify the specific species or variety to ensure its fruit is safe to eat.

Is Prunus the same as Cherry Blossom?

Prunus is a large genus of trees and shrubs that includes many species, among them the well-known cherry blossom trees. While all cherry blossom trees belong to the Prunus genus, not all Prunus trees are cherry blossoms. The Prunus genus also includes plums, peaches, apricots, and almonds. Cherry blossom trees, famous for their stunning spring flowers, are typically varieties of Prunus serrulata and Prunus avium. So, “cherry blossom” refers specifically to certain flowering Prunus species celebrated for their decorative blooms.

What Is The Common Name For Prunus?

The common name for Prunus is typically “cherry” or “plum,” depending on the specific species within the Prunus genus. This genus includes cherries, plums, peaches, apricots, and almonds, but the most common references are to cherry and plum trees.

When Do Prunus Trees Flower?

Prunus trees typically flower in early to mid-spring, with the exact timing depending on the variety and local climate conditions in New Zealand. Most flowering cherries begin blooming between August and October, producing vibrant blossoms that last several weeks. The stunning flowers mark the transition from winter to spring and attract pollinators such as bees and birds. Warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours trigger the flowering process, so flowering may occur earlier in milder regions. Proper care, including adequate sunlight and watering, helps ensure a healthy and abundant bloom each season.