Skip to content
IIIFolio · plant profile№ 359Dedible
Data provenancePermapeopleTreflePFAFPOWOreviewed 15 Oct 2026methodology → read

Cherry prinsepia

Prinsepia sinensis
Educational content — not medical, botanical, or professional advice. Plant identification, safety, and edibility depend on local conditions, cultivars, and correct identification. Consult a qualified botanist or forager before consuming or handling wild specimens. How we source & review →
edibleshrubsedible
Updated·Quick Q&A →
Garden journal pausedUse profile notes below
Prinsepia sinensis (Cherry prinsepia) — botanical photograph
Pl. 359D — Prinsepia sinensis
Prinsepia sinensisPrinsepia sinensisPrinsepia sinensisPrinsepia sinensisPrinsepia sinensisPrinsepia sinensisPrinsepia sinensisPrinsepia sinensisPrinsepia sinensisPrinsepia sinensisPrinsepia sinensisPrinsepia sinensisPrinsepia sinensisPrinsepia sinensis
I

Overview

Cherry prinsepia (Prinsepia sinensis) is a deciduous shrub native to the northeastern regions of Asia, including Inner Mongolia, Korea, Manchuria, and Primorye. This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 4-8 and grows to a height of about 1.8 meters. Known for its edible fruit, cherry prinsepia has ornamental value as well, making it a versatile addition to gardens. Its distinctive feature includes small, fragrant white flowers followed by bright red berries that ripen in late summer. The fruit is edible and can be eaten raw or used in various preparations, such as jams and preserves, adding a sweet flavor without the need for additional sugar. While primarily cultivated for its ornamental and edible qualities, cherry prinsepia also serves as an attractive shrub for gardens and landscapes.

Quick answers

What is Cherry prinsepia?

Cherry prinsepia (Prinsepia sinensis) is a deciduous shrub native to the northeastern regions of Asia, including Inner Mongolia, Korea, Manchuria, and Primorye. This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay).

Growingconditions · propagation · uses
V

Cultivation

Cherry prinsepia thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It grows well in hardiness zones 4-8, making it suitable for temperate regions. The plant can reach a height of 1.8 meters and produces edible fruit. For optimal growth, ensure the soil remains consistently moist while providing adequate sunlight. Propagation is best done through cuttings or seeds.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-8
Mature size
1.8 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow Cherry prinsepia for the first time

7steps

Start with planting Cherry prinsepia in a sunny spot and follow these beginner-friendly steps.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    A young Cherry prinsepia plant, garden gloves, trowel, watering can.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant in early spring or late autumn when the soil is moist and workable.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Ensure the soil is well-draining with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5; loosen the soil if planting in a container.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Transplant young plants from a nursery pot to your garden, spacing them about 2 meters apart.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged; mulch around the base for moisture retention.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Provide full sun exposure and regular watering during dry spells. Prune in late winter to maintain shape.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune in late winter to encourage healthy growth; fruit can be harvested after the plant is established.

VI

Edible & utility

Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The cherry prinsepia's fruit is edible and can be eaten raw or used in various preparations. It is often consumed fresh but can also be dried for later use. The fruit can add a sweet flavor to jams and preserves without the need for additional sugar.
Contextrange · companions · related
VII

Distribution

4 native · 0 introduced
Distribution across1 continent· 4 native
Asia2 regions
native (2)ChinaSouth Korea
Broader regions
native:Primorye
IX

Specimen gallery

1 image
Prinsepia sinensis (Cherry prinsepia) — botanical photograph
Cherry prinsepia (Prinsepia sinensis)
XI

Explore further

XII

About this entry

Last updated
Citation
How to cite this entry · Submit a correction
Back to the cataloguePlant id · 359dc11d-f284-4135-82f8-d97297a829e9
Decision aid
Choosing between Cherry prinsepia and something else?
Compare with another plant

Continue reading

❦❦❦❦
Endpaper · archive updates

Get archive updates

Occasional email when substantial new content lands — plant profiles, seasonal growing notes, folk-remedy additions. Free, no tracking, unsubscribe anytime.

Newsletter returning soon.
We are rebuilding the update list around a lightweight editorial workflow. New dispatches will resume after the next content review cycle.
iCare notes