Prunus ‘Autumnalis’ is distinct for blooming twice a year: semi-double pink blossoms appear abundantly in spring and somewhat less densely in autumn. A cultivar of Prunus x subhirtella, it gained its name for that second bloom. This tree is loved for its abundant non-fragrant flowers.
I. Appearance and Characteristics
Elegant in all seasons, Prunus subhirtella ‘Autumnalis’ (Rosebud Cherry) is a small, spreading deciduous tree with many ornamental qualities. Blooming in flushes over an incredibly long season from late fall to early spring, this Cherry Tree produces masses of delicate and charming clusters of semi-double, pale pink to white flowers, 1/2 in. wide (1.5 cm).
They are followed by a profusion of pea-sized black fruits, which ripen in late summer and attract hungry birds. Bronze-tinted as they emerge in spring, the lanceolate, sharply toothed, green leaves form a light canopy that casts light shade below. In fall, they turn orange and yellow before shedding to the ground.
Prunus subhirtella ‘Autumnalis’ is a graceful ornamental tree with an upright-spreading to rounded habit, which is longer-lived than many Japanese ornamental cherries.
II. How to Grow and Care
Sunlight
Prunus ‘Autumnalis’ likes sunshine. As a fruit tree, ample sunlight for photosynthesis is necessary for its growth and to provide sufficient nutrition to develop fruit. It should be planted in a spot that ensures it can receive at least 6 hours of sunlight, and ideally no less than 8 hours of sunlight.
Temperature
Prunus ‘Autumnalis’ is fairly good at surviving in low temperatures. The temperature it can tolerate ranges from -22 ℃ to 42 ℃. It is also not very picky when it comes to water. It does not need a lot of water and is resistant to both drought and flood.
Watering
Originating from a temperate climate, prunus ‘Autumnalis’ thrives with moderate moisture and is known for its resilience in fluctuating conditions. It displays a preference for consistent hydration without waterlogging, exhibiting drought tolerance once established. Watering should be managed twice a week to maintain optimal health. Given its deciduous nature, prunus ‘Autumnalis’ requires less water during the dormant winter months, aligning with its reduced metabolic activity. This trait makes it well-suited for outdoor cultivation where seasonal rainfall patterns can naturally meet its cyclical water needs.
Soil
When planting prunus ‘Autumnalis’, you should select a sandy loam soil or loam that is thick, rich in organic matter, and with a slight to medium alkaline pH of 7-8.5. Avoid planting it in a place where salt and alkalis are concentrated. Additionally, make sure that the soil is moist but drains well. It is best not to grow prunus ‘Autumnalis’ in clay soil.
Fertilizing
To ensure vigorous growth and plentiful blooms for prunus ‘Autumnalis’, apply balanced nutrition fertilizers in spring. In the initial growth phase, high nitrogen is beneficial to foster leaf development. Fertilize prunus ‘Autumnalis’ every 4-6 weeks during active growth; reduce frequency in winter.
Use recommended rates on product labels to prevent overfertilization, which can harm prunus ‘Autumnalis’ or lead to excessive foliage at the expense of flowers. Seasonally adjust: shift to a potassium-rich formula in late summer to prepare prunus ‘Autumnalis’ for dormancy and enhance cold tolerance. Always water prunus ‘Autumnalis’ thoroughly after fertilizing to help nutrients reach the roots and prevent burn.
Planting Instructions
You can purchase prunus ‘Autumnalis’ saplings in garden centers. Pay attention to two things before planting. First, choose an area of the garden that has a lower altitude to plant your prunus ‘Autumnalis’. This will help it to acquire enough water because its roots are shallow. Additionally, apply sufficient base fertilizer before planting it, mostly organic fertilizer. Once planted, remember to water it soon after, until the water on the surface of the soil stops draining away. When this happens you have provided sufficient water.
We generally do not sow seeds to propagate prunus ‘Autumnalis’ because the seeds need to undergo post-ripening effects. This means that the seeds are not yet mature when they are harvested. It is only after a period of special treatment that the seeds can complete their biochemical processes and reach the condition of being mature seeds that are able to germinate.
Pruning
Prunus ‘Autumnalis’ sprouts on branches that have strong budding capabilities. However, the branches can easily become overcrowded and need frequent pruning to maintain the shape, air circulation, and light exposure within the tree. This also helps to prevent pests and diseases while at the same time helping the leaves receive more sunlight.
Prunus ‘Autumnalis’ can generate a large amount of fruit without any artificial pollination. Because prunus ‘Autumnalis’ can produce a large number of flowers with a high yield of fruit, to maintain its growth and the quality of fruit, it is recommended that some flowers and fruit be removed to concentrate the nutrients for the remaining fruit. As a result, there will not be a large amount of fruit, but those left will be of higher quality and have an improved flavor.
Propagation
Prunus ‘Autumnalis’ can be propagated effectively using the cutting method. To encourage successful rooting, take semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer and treat with a rooting hormone to accelerate growth. Ensure cuttings are placed in well-draining soil and under appropriate humidity and temperature conditions for optimal results. Regular monitoring and care are crucial to help the propagules establish a robust root system, providing them with the foundation needed to develop into healthy, mature specimens.
Transplanting
The best time to transplant prunus ‘Autumnalis’ is in the season of renewal, from late spring to the balmy onset of summer. Choose a spot where dappled sunlight can grace its leaves. For a seamless transition, ensure soil is moist and well-draining.
III. Uses and Benefits
Prunus ‘Autumnalis’ is perfect choice as a single specimen plant, mixed borders, lawns.
IV. Harvesting and Storage
The fruits of prunus ‘Autumnalis’ usually ripen in the early fall and can be picked for eating. If the fruit needs to be stored or transported a long distance, it is better to harvest the fruit before it softens, such as during the late summer or early fall. Note that fruit should be handled gently and, ideally, and the twig should remain on the fruit.
