Skip to content
IIIFolio · plant profile№ 28D6medicinal · edible
Data provenancePermapeopleTrefleWikipediaPFAFPOWOeditorially reviewedreviewed 20 Oct 2026methodology → read
Home/Plants/Rosaceae

Korean Cherry

Prunus japonicafam. Rosaceae
Educational content — not medical, botanical, or professional advice. Always consult a qualified clinician before using any herbal preparation — especially during pregnancy, breastfeeding, while on medication, or for children. How we source & review →
medicinaledibleshrubsedibleedible fruitmedicinalnative asiaornamentaltree
Updated·Quick Q&A →
Garden journal pausedUse profile notes below
Prunus japonica (Korean Cherry) — botanical photograph
Pl. 28D6 — Prunus japonica
Prunus japonicaPrunus japonicaPrunus japonicaPrunus japonicaPrunus japonicaPrunus japonicaPrunus japonicaPrunus japonicaPrunus japonicaPrunus japonicaPrunus japonicaPrunus japonicaPrunus japonicaPrunus japonica
I

Overview

Korean Cherry, scientifically known as *Prunus japonica* and belonging to the Rosaceae family, is a small tree or shrub native to regions including China North-Central, Southeastern China, Korea, and Manchuria. This plant thrives in light to partial shade with moist soil that can be either sandy, medium, or clayey, making it adaptable to various growing conditions. It is hardy in zones 4-8 and grows up to 1.5 meters tall. The Korean Cherry is both edible and medicinal, with its fruit and seeds being used for consumption. The fruit can be eaten raw or used in jams and jellies, while the seeds require careful preparation to remove toxicity before consumption. Additionally, the plant has a documented history of medicinal use, making it a versatile addition to gardens and landscapes. One distinctive feature of this plant is its adaptability to different soil types, allowing it to grow in diverse environments. While the plant is generally safe, caution should be exercised when using it medicinally, as proper preparation and consultation with a healthcare professional are recommended.

Quick answers

What is Korean Cherry?

Korean Cherry, scientifically known as *Prunus japonica* and belonging to the Rosaceae family, is a small tree or shrub native to regions including China North-Central, Southeastern China, Korea, and Manchuria.

Compare with:Apple Rose→Birch Bark Cherry→Bloxam's Raspberry→all comparisons →
IV·b

Mixology suggestions

1 draft
Editorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Korean Cherry support blend
general
tea
AI returned a direct ingredient list; normalized into one draft blend for editorial review.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
V

Cultivation

Korean Cherry (Prunus japonica) thrives in full to partial sun, requiring moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 4-8, making it suitable for temperate regions. For cultivation, ensure the soil remains consistently moist, and provide ample sunlight. Propagation can be achieved through seeds, though the plant may take several years to reach its mature height of 1.5 meters.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-8
Mature size
1.5 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow Korean Cherry for the first time

8steps

Start with planting a Korean Cherry tree for its ornamental value and easy care.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    A young Korean Cherry sapling, well-draining soil, and a garden trowel.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant in early spring or late fall when the ground is workable but not frozen.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Ensure the soil is light (sandy), medium, or heavy with good drainage. Amend as needed for your local conditions.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Transplant a young sapling from a nursery pot to your garden bed, ensuring it has enough space to grow.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Water the tree regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for any signs of stress or pests.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Provide full sun to partial shade and regular watering, especially during dry spells. Prune lightly in late winter to maintain shape.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune the tree annually in late winter to remove dead or crossing branches and encourage new growth.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil without amending, neglecting regular pruning, and not providing enough sunlight.

VI

Edible & utility

Edible parts:FruitSeed
Edible uses: The Korean Cherry's fruit is edible and can be eaten raw or used in various preparations such as jams and jellies. The seeds are also utilized but require careful preparation to remove toxicity before consumption. Typically, the fruits are harvested when ripe and enjoyed fresh or preserved for later use.
Other uses:Dye
Contextrange · companions · related
VII

Distribution

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

Specimen gallery

1 image
Prunus japonica (Korean Cherry) — botanical photograph
Korean Cherry (Prunus japonica)
X

See also

8 related
XI

Explore further

XII

About this entry

Last updated
Citation
How to cite this entry · Submit a correction
Back to the cataloguePlant id · 28d62a28-7fbd-4836-abd6-ab6fd6a760b1
Decision aid
Choosing between Korean Cherry 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