Source: Wikimedia Commons
Fuji cherry
IntermediatePrunus incisa
Another name for the mame-zakura, a small wild cherry endemic to Japan and common around Mt. Fuji and Hakone. Small in flower, leaf and stature, it bears little white to pale pink, nodding flowers even on short trees, so it blooms well as bonsai.
About
Fuji-zakura is another name for Prunus incisa (mame-zakura), one of Japan's basic wild cherry species. Endemic to Japan, it grows in the mountains of the Kanto, Chubu and Kinki regions and is especially common around Mt. Fuji and Hakone, hence its names 'Fuji cherry' and 'Hakone cherry'. As the name mame (bean) suggests, its flowers, leaves and height are all smaller than other cherries; the leaves, 3–5 cm, are the smallest in the group and deeply toothed. From late March to early May it bears white to pale pink flowers about 2 cm across, one to three together, nodding or facing sideways. It can reach about 10 m but more often forms a 3–5 m multi-stemmed clump. Unlike most cherries it flowers even when short, so it blooms well as bonsai. On the other hand it buds back weakly and declines if pruned hard—a key difference from pruning-tolerant satozakura such as Asahiyama. Plants sold as 'Fuji-zakura' include the wild type and incisa cultivars such as zigzag-branched 'Kojo-no-mai' and double 'Oshidori', so check the label.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Size of the Fuji cherry
The Fuji cherry grows to Up to about 10 m, usually a 3–5 m clump (bonsai: mini to shohin).
Temperature & humidity for the Fuji cherry
It can be propagated by cuttings and is hardy to about −20 °C.
Basic Info
Origin
Endemic to Japan (mountains of Kanto, Chubu and Kinki, especially around Mt. Fuji and Hakone)
Lifespan
Little data on lifespan
Size
Up to about 10 m, usually a 3–5 m clump (bonsai: mini to shohin)
Temperature
-5〜35℃
Watering & Fertilizer
Fertilizer (after flowering to autumn, except the rainy season and midsummer)
Growing Tips
Light & placement
Likes sun with some humidity, but incisa types suffer in strong sun and heat—give bright, shaded conditions in summer
Watering
Grows poorly in dry conditions; roots are easily hurt by both brief drought and waterlogging, so water thoroughly as the surface dries
Temperature & overwintering
Very hardy—grows where winters reach −20 °C. Needs winter chill to flower, so overwinter outdoors, shielded from drying wind and late frost
Soil & repotting
From volcanic areas and not fussy about soil; in pots use a free-draining mix and repot when root-bound
Fertilizer
Feed from after flowering to autumn, except the rainy season and midsummer, with a phosphorus-rich flowering feed
Pruning & styling
Weak at budding back and declines with hard pruning. Lightly trim over-long shoots after flowering and seal cuts
Pests & cautions
Watch for cherry pests and diseases such as aphids, scale and crown gall. It is native—buy nursery-grown plants, never wild-dug ones
Fuji cherry FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Fuji cherry?
Intermediate. A variety suitable for intermediate growers. Requires some cultivation experience and knowledge of environment management. Pay careful attention to temperature and humidity control.
QHow large does Fuji cherry get?
The mature size of Fuji cherry is Up to about 10 m, usually a 3–5 m clump (bonsai: mini to shohin). This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Fuji cherry?
Fuji cherry: watering & fertilizer — Fertilizer (after flowering to autumn, except the rainy season and midsummer). Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Fuji cherry?
The price of Fuji cherry varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: September 23, 2026
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Regulations & Conservation Status
Not listed by CITES and not regulated for domestic sale. Do not collect wild plants (e.g. around Fuji–Hakone); choose cultivated stock.
Sources: Species+ (CITES listing search)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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