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What is a Weeping Cherry Tree?

Tricia Christensen
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Updated: May 16, 2024
Views: 19,080
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The weeping cherry refers to several types of ornamental trees that are native to Japan or developed from Japanese native species. What is meant by ornamental, in this case, is that the trees produce fruit, but it is not usually considered edible by humans, though it can attract birds. These trees have branches growing from the top that bend back to the earth and appear to “weep,” as the weeping willow does. There are dwarf, semi-dwarf, and standard varieties of the tree, and the color of the petals when the tree is in full bloom may be either white or pink. Some weeping cherry trees also have lovely fall foliage, which enhances their appeal.

Gardeners who are thinking about adding a weeping cherry tree to the garden must carefully consider their zone and size of the tree they would like to plant. There is some dispute on the best zones for these trees. Zone 5-9 are usually considered best, but a few gardeners suggest the trees will grow well in Zone 4 and possibly Zone 3. A discussion with a nursery or landscaping expert on growing the trees in the lower zones is warranted to determine if there are extra precautions that might be required, such as protection from frosts or snow.

Considering size is important, too. A dwarf variant of the weeping cherry tree like Snow Fountain typically won’t grow to be more than 8 feet (2.44 m) in height. On the other hand, the Kwanzan variant usually doesn’t exceed 15 feet (4.57 m).

Most other weeping cherry tree variants reach heights between 20 and 40 feet (6.096- 12.19 m), though it can take them many years to achieve full height. Choice may have to do with available space or impatience to see the tree in its maturity, as a dwarf reaches full height in just a couple of years. With all tree variants, gardeners can expect waiting at least two years until blooming is profuse.

Some attention needs to also be paid to potential pruning of the long weeping branches. With standard size variants of the weeping cherry tree, garden specialists may advise not pruning the long branches. even if they touch the ground, especially if the tree isn’t at full height. Pruning these back too far can eliminate the weeping effect. Gardeners are safer pruning dwarf or semi-dwarf varieties, but they should prune them only slightly, and generally only in fall after the tree loses its foliage.

The weeping cherry tree also needs planting in an ideal location, which means placing the tree in an area where it will get full sun. These trees also require moist soil, which can mean frequent watering is required. Many gardeners suggest the aesthetic effects of the tree are magnified when it is planted near water like a fountain or a lake. The reflection from the water can be beautiful, especially as the petals of the cherry blossom drift down to the water, like snow.

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Tricia Christensen
By Tricia Christensen
With a Literature degree from Sonoma State University and years of experience as a HomeQuestionsAnswered contributor, Tricia Christensen is based in Northern California and brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to her writing. Her wide-ranging interests include reading, writing, medicine, art, film, history, politics, ethics, and religion, all of which she incorporates into her informative articles. Tricia is currently working on her first novel.
Discussion Comments
By SarahSon — On Jun 29, 2011

If you are looking an exotic, unique addition to your home, you might consider a Japanese Bonsai Cherry Blossom tree. They can be kind of pricey, but they have such an usual look to them that I find them hard to resist.

I think bonsai trees are so appealing because there is a sense of elegance and mystery to them. They are graceful looking trees and because they don't get very big are a little easier to maintain.

By LisaLou — On Jun 27, 2011

We visited a friends house in the country who had a long lane you drove down to get to their house. We were there in the spring, and the lane was lined with Japanese Cherry Trees. They happened to be in bloom when we were there, and it was a spectacular site to see all these pink blooms.

These beautiful trees added privacy and complemented the landscaping. I had seen pictures of the cherry trees in bloom in Washington D.C., but never realized how beautiful they really were until I saw them myself.

By julies — On Jun 25, 2011

I planted a dwarf weeping cherry tree on the side of my house and when it blooms is absolutely beautiful. I can see this tree when I am sitting in my sun room and look forward to its showcase of blooms every year. The only downside I have found is that the blooms never last long enough.

My tree is not full grown yet, and should reach about 8 feet tall. I prune the branches at least once a year to keep it shaped evenly, and have even thought about adding another one.

Tricia Christensen
Tricia Christensen
With a Literature degree from Sonoma State University and years of experience as a HomeQuestionsAnswered contributor,...
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