Identifying a tree/plant at my home in Bensalem, Pa. 19020

I know I should have attached a picture of the tree that I'm trying to identify, but maybe someone could offer some assistance without it for now. I'll do my best so here goes....we just moved into a new development in Bensalem, Pa. There were several plants that the former owner had landscaped, but there is one in particular that I have never seen before. My wife and I titled it an Umbrella tree because that's just what it looks like...an umbrella! The tree stands about five feet tall and is just now starting to bloom. The trunk is about four or five inches in diameter. The top portion (the "umbrella" shape), which is now in bloom, looks like a cherry blossom as it has white and pink colors throughout. Any ideas?? I hope this helps. If not, then I'll attach a picture next time. Thanks, folks.

Is there any reason you don't think it's a weeping cherry? That is what your description sounds like.


edited to fix an unintelligible string of words. I've got to stop drinking beer with lunch... j/k

This message was edited Apr 5, 2008 12:51 PM

Could be one of the flowering peach or cherries which only flower, but don't actually set fruit.
Ck. the PlantFiles and see if any of the photos look like what you have.

Since I'm new to this whole landscaping experience I am relying on the experts out there. I appreciate the response very much...thanks! Sorry for the lack of pictures...next time!

I think this tree has been identified by plantfreak78, but just to make sure I am attaching a picture (finally). I also made an error when first posting...I should have put "Yes" where it states "New", since I am new to this forum and new to landscaping in general. I am glad I came across this site as it has really helped me with lots of interesting information and informative people. This is a wonderful site indeed. Thanks for creating it....

Yep, it's a weeping cherry (most likely Snow Fountains®, Prunus x yedoensis 'Snofozam'). If you could get a close-up picture of the blooms, I could tell for sure.

Thanks plantfreak78...I'll take a close up soon. It's really starting to bloom now that the warmer weather is approaching. Let me ask you this...I want to add additional weeping cherry trees to my property. What special care, if any, do I need to be aware about? Will they take root easily? Any information would be greatly appreciated.

Unfortuately cherries and their relatives can be a bit insect and disease prone. The more common problems include shot hole fungus of the leaves, borers (like Ambrosia beetle) and japanese beetles. They're still great trees, you just want to keep a close eye on them and watch out for anything odd that may need to be treated (especially sap bleeding from the trunk or stems). As for the beetles, Bayer makes a product called Tree and Shrub Insect Control that works great. If you put it on the ground in early May the tree will take it up into it's leaves and when a beetle chews on it, they're toast. (It's a lot easier than spraying Sevin daily).

Will a weeping cherry grow in my zone ?? It's just what I have been looking for. Also will it do in a small side yard- maybe 5 feet wide?

You should be able to grow one in your zone.