How to Grow Yae-akebono Cherry
Wikimedia Commons
Yae-akebono Cherry
Prunus serrulata 'Yae-akebono'
treeYae-akebono is a stunning ornamental cherry tree known for its profuse double pink blossoms that emerge in mid-spring. This cultivar is a selection of the Japanese flowering cherry and is prized for its abundant, long-lasting flowers and graceful weeping form. It is a popular choice for gardens, parks, and landscapes where spring color is desired.
When should you plant Yae-akebono Cherry in your zone?
Get a personalized planting timeline — when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Free to start.
Example Yae-akebono Cherry timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
-
Plant Yae-akebono Cherry
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
-
Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
-
Harvest Yae-akebono Cherry
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Yae-akebono Cherry dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 5-8, with best performance in zones 6-7
Sign up free to see if Yae-akebono Cherry grows in your zone — and get a personalized planting timeline.
Get my Yae-akebono Cherry timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
First 2-3 yearsYoung tree focuses on root development with limited top growth. Canopy begins forming.
Water regularly and deeply. Stake if necessary for wind protection. Avoid pruning except to remove damaged branches. Mulch around base.
Vegetative Growth
Years 3-5Tree develops its characteristic form with branching structure established. Foliage is dense and healthy.
Continue regular watering during dry periods. Light pruning to shape the tree and remove crossing branches. Fertilize lightly in spring.
Pre-flowering
Years 5-7Tree begins producing flower buds on branches. Overall structure is well-defined.
Reduce nitrogen fertilizer to encourage flowering. Maintain consistent moisture. Prune only to remove dead or diseased wood.
Flowering
2-3 weeks (late March to April depending on location)Profuse double pink blossoms cover the tree in mid-spring. Flowers are fragrant and can completely obscure foliage initially.
Minimal intervention needed. Water if dry conditions occur. Do not prune during flowering. Enjoy the blooms.
Fruit Development & Maturity
May through SeptemberAfter bloom, small black fruits (drupes) develop, though they are inconspicuous. Tree returns to full foliage.
Remove any diseased or crossed branches. Continue regular watering through summer. Prune after flowering if needed.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
-
Handpick early morning, use pheromone traps, apply neem oil or insecticidal soap
-
Spray with strong water stream, use insecticidal soap, encourage natural predators
-
Increase humidity, spray with water, use miticide if severe
-
Remove tent nests by hand, apply Bacillus thuringiensis (BT), prune affected branches
-
Prune out infected branches 6 inches below the knot, sterilize tools, destroy affected wood
Uses
Cut Flowers & Floral Arrangements
CraftThe abundant double pink blossoms are excellent for spring bouquets and floral arrangements. Cut stems with developing buds will open indoors over several days. [source]
Wildlife Habitat & Pollinator Support
WildlifeThe spring blossoms attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators early in the season. Birds feed on the small fruits in summer. [source]
Landscape Focal Point
HouseholdThe weeping form and spectacular spring bloom make this tree a natural focal point in gardens, parks, and public spaces. It provides year-round structural interest. [source]
Edible Flowers
CulinaryThe delicate petals can be used to garnish dishes or infuse into drinks like tea or cordials for a subtle floral flavor and visual appeal. [source]
Traditional Medicine
MedicinalIn Asian traditional medicine, various Prunus serrulata preparations have been used to support relaxation and general wellness, though scientific evidence is limited. [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 for flowers, not fruit harvest. Cut flowers for arrangements by selecting stems with firm buds or newly opened blossoms in early morning.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Yae-akebono is believed to be a hybrid between Prunus serrulata and Prunus subhirtella, combining the spectacular double blossoms of one parent with the reliable blooming habits of the other.
- 🌱 The name 'Yae-akebono' is Japanese, with 'Yae' meaning 'double' (referring to the double flowers) and 'akebono' meaning 'dawn' or 'daybreak,' evoking the pale pink color of sunrise.
- 🌱 Cherry blossoms (sakura) hold deep cultural significance in Japan and are celebrated annually during Hanami (flower viewing) festivals, with Yae-akebono being a favorite cultivar for these celebrations.
Join 30,000 gardeners planning their gardens with LizPlants.
Get your personalized Yae-akebono Cherry planting timeline
Tell us your zip code and we'll calculate exactly when to start Yae-akebono Cherry seeds, transplant seedlings, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Includes calendar reminders and printable task lists. Free to start.
Get my Yae-akebono Cherry timeline →