Family
Rosaceae
Botanical Name
Prunus x yedoensis 'Afterglow'
Plant Common Name
Afterglow Yoshino Cherry, Yoshino Cherry
General Description
A seedling of 'Akebono,' this vigorous, early-blooming cherry bears clouds of showy pink flowers that do not fade with age. It is a cultivar of Yoshino cherry, a hybrid originating in Japan in the mid-nineteenth century.
The ascending to spreading branches of this deciduous tree are furnished with oval, serrated, dark green leaves that turn yellow in fall. They are preceded in late winter or early spring by masses of rich pink, five-petaled flowers. Small, black, bitter fruits may follow the blooms. This cultivar develops quite rapidly into a small round-headed tree of approximately equal height and width.
Yoshino cherry thrives in full sun and rich, moderately moist, well-drained soil. It will fail in heavy, poorly drained soils. Prune lightly to eliminate crossing or awkward branches. Use 'Afterglow' where its symmetrical habit and richly hued blooms will show to best advantage. Its flowers are especially lovely when viewed against a backdrop of evergreens or a dark wall. This cultivar is noted for its relative cold-hardiness.
Characteristics
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AHS Heat Zone
8 - 1
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USDA Hardiness Zone
5 - 8
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Sunset Zone
3a, 3b, 4, 5, 6, 7, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20
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Plant Type
Tree
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Sun Exposure
Full Sun
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Height
20'-30' / 6.1m - 9.1m
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Width
20'-30' / 6.1m - 9.1m
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Bloom Time
Early Spring, Late Winter
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Native To
Hybrid Origin
Growing Conditions
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Soil pH
Acidic, Neutral
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Soil Drainage
Well Drained
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Soil type
Loam, Sand
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Growth Rate
Fast
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Water Requirements
Average Water
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Habit
Oval/Rounded
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Seasonal Interest
Spring, Summer, Fall