Purple Leaf Sand Cherry (Prunus x cistena)

Watch Reply
More
Mark unread Print Skip to new
WaterCan2 Eastern Long Island, NY(Zone 7a) May 03, 2008

Purple Leaf Sand Cherry
Prunus x cistena

Purple Leaf Sand Cherry blossoms

Thumbnail by WaterCan2
Post #4899936
Quote
digger99 Saint Charles, MO May 20, 2008

I planted a Purple Leaf Sand Cherry. Within a week rabbits had eaten every leaf. Is this shrub dead . I have fencing NOW to keep the rabbits away, but should I buy a new Purple Leaf or stick with this one? Thanks

PS: The rabbits are very cute

Post #4980453
Quote
WaterCan2 Eastern Long Island, NY(Zone 7a) May 21, 2008

The shrub is most probably not dead but it should have started to put out new leaves, this particular tree loves the sun. I'd water it once a day and keep a close eye on it for new leaves. By all means do whatever you can to keep those rabbits off, we have rabbits here too but they have plenty to eat with dandelions in the woods. Good luck!

Post #4980980
Quote
Cheryl_103 Pittsburgh, PA(Zone 6a) Jul 07, 2008

I'm trying to choose shrubs for a border; are there any "cons" to this sand cherry, other than being tasty to bunnies? i.e. Does it require any frequent pruning? Unsightly in winter?
I really love the spring flowers, and the beautiful summer color.

Post #5216473
Quote
WaterCan2 Eastern Long Island, NY(Zone 7a) Jul 07, 2008

I actually have rabbits and they have not touched the Sand Cherry. It is not an evergreen so it will loose it's leaves during winter. I found that it does not require frequent pruning. It's growth surge is in the early spring for about 1½ months,. Mine grow about 10"-12" per year in height with it's upward growth unrestricted. It's tendency is naturally 'treelike' so to give fullness for a border you would have to trim it for that effect. The branches are soft and flexible. Another more aggressive bush next to it in a mixed border can overpower it and leave it's only growth option upwards if not checked.

Post #5216942
Quote
Cheryl_103 Pittsburgh, PA(Zone 6a) Jul 10, 2008

Thanks for the info, WaterCan2. I'm glad to hear the bunnies have left yours alone. We do have bunnies, but the dog keeps them 'hopping' haha....
I'm thinking on using them between & in front of red twig dogwood.

Post #5236458
Quote

Post a Reply to this Thread

Please or sign up to post.
Back to Forum Homepage

More PlantFiles Pictures Threads

Go to all PlantFiles Pictures threads
BACK TO TOP