Prunus avium 'Plena' – The Gorgeous Double Cherry for a Show-Stopping Spring Display

Prunus avium 'Plena', commonly known as the Double Cherry, is a stunning ornamental tree that brings breathtaking beauty to gardens in spring. Famous for its profusion of large, white, double flowers, this cherry tree creates a spectacular display when in bloom. The tree’s graceful form and lush green foliage offer additional seasonal interest, with vibrant autumn colors and an elegant structure that lasts year-round. Ideal for smaller gardens, parks, and as a specimen tree, Prunus avium 'Plena' is a perfect choice for adding a dramatic splash of color to any landscape.

Why Grow Prunus avium 'Plena'?

• Double Pink Blossoms – Large, fully double white flowers cover the tree in early spring, creating a cloud-like effect that is sure to impress.
• Graceful Form – Its rounded, spreading shape makes it an attractive specimen tree or focal point in any garden.
• Vibrant Autumn Foliage – Leaves turn a warm golden yellow and orange in autumn, providing seasonal color after the flowers fade.
• Attracts Pollinators – The spring flowers are a magnet for bees and other pollinators, adding a touch of life and activity to your garden.

Height of Plant
Prunus avium 'Plena' typically grows to around 5–8 meters in height and 4–6 meters in width at maturity, making it an excellent choice for medium-sized gardens, parkland, or as a specimen tree in both urban and rural landscapes.

Where to Site Your Prunus avium 'Plena'
This stunning cherry tree thrives in various locations, including:

• Ornamental gardens where its spring blooms can be fully appreciated
• Small to medium-sized gardens as a focal point or specimen tree
• Urban landscapes, where its compact size fits well into tight spaces
• Pollinator-friendly gardens, attracting bees and butterflies with its flowers

How to Grow and Care for Your Prunus avium 'Plena'

• Soil – Prefers well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil, but is adaptable to a variety of soil types, including clay and loamy soils.
• Light – Grows best in full sun, which encourages abundant blooming and healthy growth.
• Watering – Keep the soil moderately moist, particularly during dry spells. Once established, it is relatively drought-tolerant.
• Maintenance:
  • Pruning – Light pruning in late winter or early spring can help maintain the tree’s shape and remove any dead or damaged wood. Avoid heavy pruning to preserve the natural form.
  • Mulching – Apply mulch around the base to help retain moisture, especially during dry periods, and to suppress weeds.
• Pest & Disease Resistance – Prunus avium 'Plena' is generally resistant to pests and diseases but may occasionally be affected by aphids, cherry slug, or fungal issues such as powdery mildew.
• Cold Hardy – Hardy to about -20°C, making it suitable for colder climates.

Perfect Plant Combinations
Prunus avium 'Plena' pairs beautifully with other spring-blooming trees, perennials, and shrubs. Its soft pink flowers create a lovely contrast with darker foliage and provide a harmonious backdrop for early bulbs, such as daffodils and crocuses. The tree’s vibrant autumn color works well when combined with evergreens or late-season blooms.

With its spectacular double blooms, graceful form, and vibrant seasonal changes, Prunus avium 'Plena' is an excellent choice for adding dramatic beauty and year-round interest to your landscape. Its compact size and easy care make it perfect for smaller gardens, urban spaces, or as a focal point in larger landscapes.

Guide to Planting Field-Grown Root Balled Plants

Pros:

1. Established Roots: Typically stronger, established roots ensure better initial growth.
2. Immediate Impact: Larger plants provide instant structure and aesthetics.

Cons:

1. Heavy and Bulky: Can be difficult to transport and plant due to size and weight.
2. Seasonal Availability: Generally available only in the dormant season (autumn to early spring).

Preparation for Planting:

1. Unwrap Carefully: Remove any packaging material, but leave the burlap or wire basket on.
2. Keep plants moist: Plants should be kept moist until the time of planting.

Planting Process:

1. Dig a Hole: Make a hole twice the width of the root ball and the same depth.
2. Position Plant: Place the root ball in the hole, ensuring the top is level with the ground surface.
3. Do Not Remove Root Sack: Leave the burlap or wire basket around the root ball. It is bio degradable and will rot away naturally.
4. Backfill: Fill the hole with soil, firming gently around the roots to eliminate air pockets.
5. Water: Water deeply after planting to settle the soil and avoid wilting.

Possibility of Losses:

• Initial Shock: Some plants may suffer transplant shock, leading to potential losses.
• Mitigation: Proper care and consistent watering during the establishment phase can minimise this risk.

Main Causes of Failure:

1. Improper Planting Depth: Planting too deep or too shallow can stress the roots.
2. Poor Soil Conditions: Compacted or poorly drained soil can hinder root growth.
3. Insufficient Watering: Both under-watering and over-watering can lead to plant stress and failure. Strong wind can dry leafy pants.
4. Pest and Disease: Lack of protection and monitoring can result in damage from pests and diseases.

Tips for Success:

1. Stake Larger Plants: Support with stakes to prevent wind damage.
2. Mulch: Apply a layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate temperature.
3. Regular Monitoring: Check for signs of stress, pests, and disease, and address them promptly.

By following these guidelines and providing consistent aftercare, you can successfully plant and establish field-grown root balled plants in your garden.

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Does the height include the pot?

No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description

How long does delivery take?

Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.

Where will you leave my plants?

We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.