Prunus 'Kanzan'
Prunus ‘Kanzan’, family Rosaceae
In its own language: 関山
A Japanese cherry tree with large, deep pink double blossoms
Prunus 'Kanzan' is a flowering cherry tree first bred in Japan during the Edo period. Known for its double, deep pink blooms and compact shape, it is widely planted in gardens and streets, especially in colder regions. Its blossoms are a spring highlight in many cities.
- Developed in Japan during the Edo period
- Produces double flowers with 20 to 50 deep pink petals
- Grows well in colder climates and small gardens
- A row of 300 trees was planted in Bonn, Germany
- Parent of 'Pink Perfection' and 'Royal Burgundy' cultivars
What does Prunus 'Kanzan' look like?
Prunus 'Kanzan' is a deciduous cherry tree that can reach from 1 to 9 metres in height, with a spread of about 8 metres. Young trees have a vase-like form that becomes broader as they age. In spring, the tree produces clusters of large, double flowers, each with 20 to 50 deep pink petals. The buds appear red in winter before opening. The leaves emerge bronze and turn green as they mature.
Where does Prunus 'Kanzan' come from?
This cherry tree was developed in Japan during the Edo period. It is the result of crossing different cherry species, mainly using the Oshima cherry as a base. While Oshima cherry flowers are usually white, rare pink forms appeared due to natural pigments and cold weather. Selective breeding for these pink traits led to the creation of 'Kanzan'.
When and how Prunus 'Kanzan' blooms
Kanzan trees are usually grown by grafting or chip budding onto rootstock. They do best in sunny spots with well-drained soil. The trees bloom in spring, with buds forming in winter. Their manageable size and tolerance for cold make them suitable for gardens and city streets.
How Prunus 'Kanzan' is used
The tree is widely planted for its showy spring flowers, both in private gardens and public spaces. Rows of 'Kanzan' are a feature in some cities, such as Bonn in Germany. Its blossoms are celebrated during cherry blossom festivals and are valued for their colour and fullness.
Kinds of Prunus 'Kanzan'
'Kanzan' has given rise to other ornamental cherry varieties, such as 'Pink Perfection' and 'Royal Burgundy', which are popular in Western countries. These cultivars share the double-flowered trait and rich pink colour.
What Prunus 'Kanzan' means
In Japan, 'Kanzan' is part of the Sato-zakura group of cherries, which are grown for their decorative flowers. It is especially valued for its ability to thrive in cooler climates and for its striking spring display. In some cities, rows of these trees have become local landmarks.
Where Prunus 'Kanzan' is used and seen
Where to see Prunus 'Kanzan'
Questions people ask about Prunus 'Kanzan'
Where did Prunus 'Kanzan' originate?
Prunus 'Kanzan' was bred in Japan during the Edo period by crossing different cherry species, mainly using the Oshima cherry.
What do the flowers of 'Kanzan' look like?
The tree produces large, double blossoms with 20 to 50 deep pink petals, appearing in clusters each spring.
Why is 'Kanzan' popular outside Japan?
It is widely planted because it tolerates cold, stays a manageable size, and has showy, deep pink flowers.
How is 'Kanzan' usually grown?
Most trees are propagated by grafting or chip budding and prefer sunny, well-drained locations.
Are there other varieties related to 'Kanzan'?
Yes, 'Pink Perfection' and 'Royal Burgundy' are cultivars developed from 'Kanzan', sharing its double flowers and pink colour.
Good reading and sources
- Prunus 'Kanzan' on WikipediaEncyclopedia
- More photos on Wikimedia CommonsPhotos
- Wikidata recordOpen data
The facts on this page come from the Wikipedia article "Prunus 'Kanzan'", written by its contributors and used under the CC BY-SA 4.0 licence, and from its Wikidata record (CC0). Phool rewrote the text in its own words, with AI assistance, and compares every page with the article to make sure no passage is copied. It may be reused under the same CC BY-SA 4.0 licence with a link back.
It may contain mistakes. It is not medical or foraging advice: many flowers are poisonous, and traditional uses are reported, not recommended. If something is wrong, tell us. Last refreshed 2026-10-03.
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