Okame Cherry Blossom Tree
Featured Specimen

Okame Cherry Blossom Tree

Early-blooming cultivar with vibrant carmine-pink flowers and a compact, elegant vase-shaped canopy.

Botanical Specifications

Scientific Name
Prunus 'Okame'
Family
Rosaceae
Origin
Hybrid (Japan/UK - P. incisa x P. campanulata)
Hardiness Zone
USDA Zones 6–9
Bloom Timing
Late Winter to Early Spring (February - March)
Conservation Status
Not Evaluated (Widely cultivated)

Exposure

Full Sun

Hydration

Moderate (Regular watering, especially in dry periods)

Soil pH

5.5 – 7.5 (Acidic to Neutral)

Dormancy

Winter (Deciduous)

Okame Cherry Blossom Tree The Early Herald of Saturated Pink

The Okame Cherry Tree (Prunus ‘Okame’) is the perfect choice for nature lovers who can’t wait for the full arrival of spring. Blooming weeks before most other cherry varieties, it often begins its display in late winter (February to March). What truly sets it apart is its vibrant, carmine-pink flowers. These blossoms, paired with distinct reddish-pink sepals, give the tree a much deeper and more saturated color depth compared to other cultivars.

A Compact and Aesthetic Form for Small Gardens

Structurally, the Okame features an upright, vase-shaped growth habit. Reaching a manageable height of 6 to 9 meters, its compact size makes it an ideal ornamental tree for smaller landscapes and urban gardens. Beyond its flowers, it stands out for its multi-seasonal performance; its glossy green summer leaves transition into a brilliant palette of bronzy-red and orange in the autumn. Thanks to its early blooming cycle and high heat tolerance, it remains a top aesthetic choice across various climate zones.

Frequently Asked Questions

Detailed botanical inquiries regarding the Okame Cherry Blossom Tree cultivar.

Why is the Okame cherry tree popular for small gardens?

It is a more compact variety, typically reaching only 6–9 meters, and blooms much earlier than other cherries, providing late-winter color.

What color are the Okame blossoms?

They are deep, carmine-pink flowers with distinct reddish sepals, giving the tree a very vibrant and saturated appearance.

Does the Okame cherry tree have good autumn foliage?

Yes, its leaves turn a brilliant bronzy-red to bright orange in the fall, making it a multi-seasonal landscape highlight.