Snow Fountain Weeping Cherry
Scientific Name: Prunus 'Snofozam'
Plant Family: Rosaceae
Native Region: Japan (ancestry); cultivated worldwide in temperate climates
Brief Description
A compact, deciduous ornamental cherry tree with naturally weeping branches that cascade to the ground. It features small serrated green leaves that turn gold or orange in autumn and produces a profusion of pure white flowers in early spring.
Care Instructions
Plant in a sunny location with well-draining soil. Ensure regular watering during the first year of establishment and during dry spells. Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring and prune only as needed to maintain the weeping shape and remove crossing branches.
Medicinal Value
We do not currently provide medicinal value for plant identifications.
Sunlight
Full sun for best flowering (6+ hours per day). Can tolerate light partial shade.
Watering
Moderate watering needs. Keep soil moist but not soggy. Water deeply once a week, increasing frequency during periods of extreme heat or drought.
Soil
Well-drained, loamy or sandy soil; slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–7.5). Avoid heavy clay that holds too much water.
Hardiness Zone
USDA Zones 5 through 8
Growth Habit
Perennial; weeping growth habit. Typically grafted onto a standard trunk, reaching 8–15 feet in height and 6–8 feet in spread. Slow-growing.
Bloom Season
Early spring (March-April); features clusters of small, 5-petaled single white blossoms along the length of the weeping branches.
Toxicity
Like most Prunus species, the seeds (pits), leaves, and stems contain cyanogenic glycosides and are toxic to dogs, cats, horses, and humans if ingested in quantity.
Propagation
Typically propagated by grafting onto hardier rootstocks (usually Prunus avium) to achieve the 'top-grafted' tree form seen in landscapes.
Common Pests & Issues
Susceptible to Japanese beetles, aphids, and spider mites. Possible diseases include powdery mildew, leaf spot, and canker. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Similar Species
Weeping Higan Cherry (Prunus subhirtella 'Pendula') which grows much larger, and Weeping Yoshino Cherry which has pink-tinted blooms and a wider spread.
Interesting Facts
The 'Snow Fountain' cultivar is often selected for small residential gardens because of its slow growth rate and architectural 'waterfall' of branches that provides interest even in winter.
Created At: 2026-04-22T00:59:06.258379