Prinsepia utilis

RHS Plant Profile
Himalayan cherry prinsepia
Himalayan cherry prinsepia RHS
Shrubs

A medium-sized deciduous shrub, with spiny, arching branches bearing narrowly oval leaves, bright green at first, darkening with age. Small, white, scented flowers are produced along the branches in late winter and early spring, followed by dark purple berries on long stalks

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

1.5-2.5 metres

Max Spread

1.5-2.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
5–10 years
Max Spread
1.5-2.5 metres
Max Height
1.5-2.5 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H5

Colour & Scent

Fragrance Flower
Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Rosaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy
Genus
Prinsepia are arching, spiny, deciduous shrubs with narrow leaves and fragrant white or yellow flowers followed by purple or red, cherry-like fruit
Name Status
Correct
Plant Range
Himalaya

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in any fertile, well-drained soil in full sun in an open position with room to spread

Propagation

Propagate by seed sown in containers in an open frame in autumn or by greenwood cuttings in early summer

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Low Maintenance
  • Banks and slopes
  • Hedging and screens
  • Wall side borders
  • Flower borders and beds

Pruning

Pruning group 1; cut out any dead wood in summer

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free