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How to Grow Weeping Cherry Yae-akebono

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Weeping Cherry Yae-akebono

Prunus serrulata 'Yae-akebono'

tree

Yae-akebono is a stunning double-flowering weeping cherry with cascading branches that drape gracefully toward the ground. It produces abundant semi-double to double pink blossoms that fade to white, creating a soft, romantic appearance in spring. This ornamental tree is prized as a focal point in gardens and landscapes for its elegant weeping form and prolific flowering.

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Example Weeping Cherry Yae-akebono timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)

  1. Plant Weeping Cherry Yae-akebono

    Around Apr 17

    Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.

  2. Tend & protect

    Late spring–summer

    Watering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.

  3. Harvest Weeping Cherry Yae-akebono

    Late summer into fall

    Before the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)

Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Weeping Cherry Yae-akebono dates for your own zip code.

Growing Conditions

☀️
Sun: Full sun, 6-8 hours daily for best flowering; tolerates partial shade
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Water: Regular watering during first 2-3 years to establish deep roots; moderate moisture during growing season. Drought-tolerant once established, but perform best with consistent moisture. Avoid waterlogging and poor drainage.
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Spacing: 240 inches
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Days to maturity: 3-4 years for mature flowering; full landscape presence at 8-10 years
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Planting depth: Plant at same depth as root ball; do not bury trunk

Soil

Type: Well-draining loamy soil with organic matter
pH: 6.0-7.0
Amendments:
Compost aged bark peat moss or coco coir

Growing Zones

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Thrives in zones 5-7; hardy to zone 4b with winter protection

4b 5a 5b 6a 6b 7a 7b 8a

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Growth Stages

1

Establishment

First 1-2 years

Young tree with tender branches and limited branching structure; foliage is light green

Water deeply and frequently (2-3 times weekly). Install stake for support in windy areas. Apply 2-3 inch mulch layer 6 inches from trunk. Protect from harsh winds.

2

Development

Years 2-3

Tree grows vigorously; weeping form begins to develop as lateral branches elongate and pendulum naturally. Foliage becomes denser.

Water regularly but less frequently as root system expands. Light pruning to remove crossing or crowded branches. Maintain mulch layer. Monitor for pest activity.

3

Pre-flowering

Year 3-4

Tree reaches 15-20 feet in height; weeping architecture is well-established; flower buds begin to form in late summer/early fall

Reduce supplemental watering; rely on rainfall. Do not prune heavily or remove flower buds. Apply balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Remove any dead wood.

4

Flowering

2-3 weeks in spring

Spectacular display of semi-double to double pink blossoms (late March to April) that fade to white; creates a cloud-like canopy

Do not prune during flowering. Remove spent blooms if desired (though not necessary). Enjoy the display! Monitor for Japanese beetles and aphids.

5

Mature

10+ years

Fully developed weeping form with graceful, cascading branches; lush green summer foliage; strong branch structure

Minimal pruning needed except to remove dead or diseased wood. Prune in summer after flowering to shape or thin crowded growth. Deep watering during drought. Annual spring fertilization optional.

Companion Planting

Plan your garden →

Plant with:

Hostas Japanese maples Azaleas Rhododendrons Hellebores Bleeding heart Astilbe Ferns Spring bulbs (tulips, daffodils)

Avoid planting near:

Walnut trees (juglone toxicity) Ash trees Black locust Roots of large evergreen conifers competing for water

Common Pests

  • Hand-pick early morning; use pheromone traps away from tree; neem oil or spinosad spray; beneficial nematodes for soil-dwelling larvae

  • Strong water spray to dislodge; insecticidal soap; neem oil; encourage natural predators like ladybugs

  • Increase humidity with overhead water spray; miticide if severe; neem oil; reflective mulch

  • Horticultural oil in dormant season; insecticidal soap during active growth; prune heavily infested branches

  • Prune and destroy affected branches 12 inches below knot; disinfect tools; improve air circulation; avoid nitrogen-heavy fertilizers

  • Remove affected leaves; water spray to dislodge; insecticidal soap; spinosad spray

Uses

🎨

Ornamental Focal Point

Craft

Yae-akebono serves as a stunning landscape centerpiece with its dramatic weeping form and cloud of pink blossoms in spring. The pendulous branches create an elegant silhouette visible year-round, making it invaluable for Japanese-inspired gardens and formal landscapes. [source]

🦋

Pollinator Support

Wildlife

The abundant flowers provide early nectar and pollen sources for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators emerging in spring. This tree supports essential pollinator populations during a critical time of year when few other food sources are available. [source]

🍳

Edible Flowers (Limited)

Culinary

While ornamental cherry blossoms can be used as delicate garnishes in culinary preparations, Yae-akebono produces minimal fruit. The edible flowers are used in teas, salads, and traditional Asian cuisine for aesthetic appeal and subtle floral flavor. [source]

🏠

Cut Flower Arrangements

Household

The flowering branches are prized for indoor spring arrangements and can be cut to bring the beauty of cherry blossoms into the home. Branches last 1-2 weeks in water when cut at the bud stage or early bloom. [source]

💊

Traditional Medicine Applications

Medicinal

Cherry bark and flowers have been used in traditional Asian medicine for centuries to support respiratory health and circulatory function. Modern herbalism values Prunus species for their salicylic acid compounds with mild anti-inflammatory properties. [source]

This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.

Harvest Tips

This is an ornamental tree grown primarily for flowers rather than fruit. Appreciate blossoms in spring (typically late March through April). Prune after flowering in late spring to shape and maintain form. No harvesting required.

Fun Facts

  • 🌱 Yae-akebono means 'double dawn' in Japanese, referring to its double flowers that open at dawn; it is a direct descendant of Japan's famous sakura (cherry blossom) heritage
  • 🌱 The weeping form creates a natural umbrella-like structure; mature trees can have branches that sweep the ground and create an enchanting walkway or garden room when pruned selectively
  • 🌱 This cultivar was developed specifically for its disease resistance and superior double-flower production compared to other weeping cherries, making it one of the most reliable ornamental cherries for temperate gardens

Gardening Terms

New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:

Annual Full Sun Mulch Partial Shade pH
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