Overview
Prunus incana is a bushy tree in the genus Prunus, part of the Rosaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Prunus incana grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. Suggested uses include city and courtyard gardens, cottage and informal garden, wildlife gardens and flower borders and beds.
About
Prunus incana, the willow leaf cherry, is a species of sour cherry native to the Caucasus region of central Asia, including Russia, Armenia, Georgia, Turkey, Kurdistan region of Iraq and Iran. A scrubby plant, it tends to grow on limestone cliffs at elevations around 360-2400 m.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Prunus
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed
- UK hardiness
- H6
Plant details
Prunus incana size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Tree
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens, Flower borders and beds
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Prunus incana
- Propagation
- Softwood cuttings in early summer with bottom heat
- Pest resistance
- Cherry blackfly, Aphids, Leaf-mining moths, Caterpillars
- Disease resistance
- Peach leaf curl, Silver leaf, Bacterial canker, Blossom wilt, Honey fungus
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Prunus incana?
Prunus incana prefers full sun. It suits exposed positions.
What soil does Prunus incana need?
Prunus incana grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Prunus incana hardy in the UK?
Prunus incana has an RHS hardiness rating of H6, meaning it is very hardy, tolerating -20 to -15°C across most of the UK.
How do I propagate Prunus incana?
Softwood cuttings in early summer with bottom heat.
More in the Prunus genus
- Prunus 'Senriko'
- Prunus 'Uzu-zakura'
- Prunus armeniaca 'Ips336'PBR
- Prunus armeniaca 'Kioto'PBR (F)
- Prunus avium 'Bicolam' (F)
- Prunus avium 'Ferdouce'wild cherry 'Ferdouce'
- Prunus avium 'Spc342'PBR
- Prunus canescensgreyleaf cherry
