Kanzan (or Kwanzan) is one of the classic Japanese flowering cherries - easily recognised by its large size, upright vase-shaped vigorous growth, and the mass of deep pink flowers.
It is probably the most widely-grown ornamental cherry tree in the UK.
Japanese flowering cherries are often categorised by the number of petals which form the flower, and Kanzan is a typical "double-flower", meaning the flowers have between 25-50 petals. The more petals the more intense the blossom will be, and this is perhaps the main reason for Kanzan's popularity - its flowers can have 8-10 times more petals than the simpler single-flowered forms, giving it a much more profuse blossom display.
The new leaves appear at the same time as the blossom, and are initially a coppery bronze colour. They take on orange and red tints in the autumn.
Order now for delivery from week commencing 25th November for pot grown trees or December for bare-root or mixed tree orders.
Kanzan is one of the most cold-hardy of the double-flowered cherries.
Prunus Kanzan is a traditional Japanese flowering cherry of ancient origin. The Japanese word 'Kanzan' means 'mountain border', suggesting that perhaps these trees were first discovered growing in mountainous areas.
When first brought to the UK this variety was known as Kwanzan, a mis-translation of the original name.
Illustrative example of a pot-grown tree of this variety as supplied.
Approximate girth: 6/8cm. We try to keep all pot-grown trees down to about 1.5m as supplied, but some may be larger.
Trees should reach their mature height after about 10 or more years.
We may also have 1-year bare-root trees of this variety - they are not shown here.
We list more than 70 different flowering cherry trees. Choosing can be difficult! Our article explaining the different characteristics of flowering cherries might help narrow down the selection.
This variety description was researched and written by Orange Pippin staff. Last checked: 2024.