Prunus ‘Kojo-no-mai’ is a beautifully compact ornamental cherry, loved for its twisting, architectural branches and delicate spring blossom. Originating from Japan, its name translates roughly to “Flight of the Butterflies”, perfectly describing the way its pale pink flowers appear scattered along the bare stems in early spring.

Unlike larger flowering cherries, Kojo-no-mai has a naturally dwarf, spreading habit, making it ideal for small gardens, patios, containers, rockeries, and even bonsai-style planting. In late winter to early spring, masses of small white flowers flushed with soft pink open before the leaves appear, providing an early and uplifting burst of colour when little else is in bloom.

As the season progresses, fresh green leaves emerge, later turning warm orange, red, and bronze tones in autumn, giving this plant multi-season interest despite its compact size. Slow-growing and highly ornamental, Prunus ‘Kojo-no-mai’ is a standout choice for gardeners looking for elegance, structure, and blossom in limited spaces.

Key Features

• Compact dwarf flowering cherry

• Distinctive zig-zag, contorted branches

• Abundant white to pale pink spring blossom

• Excellent autumn colour

• Ideal for containers, patios, and small gardens

• Perfect for bonsai-style pruning

• Hardy and easy to maintain

Mature Size (Approx.)

• Height: 1.5–2.5 metres

• Spread: 2–3 metres

Naturally slow-growing and easy to keep compact.

Prunus ‘Kojo-no-mai’ Care Guide

Position & Light

• Best planted in full sun or light partial shade

• A sunny position encourages heavier flowering and stronger autumn colour

• Sheltered from harsh winds is beneficial, especially in containers

Soil

• Thrives in well-drained, fertile soil

• Suitable for loam, chalk, or sandy soils

• Avoid waterlogged conditions, particularly in winter

Planting

• Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball

• Improve soil with compost or well-rotted organic matter

• Plant at the same depth as in the pot

• Water thoroughly after planting and apply mulch around the base

Watering

• Water regularly during the first growing season

• Container-grown plants require more frequent watering, especially in warm weather

• Reduce watering in winter while ensuring compost does not dry out completely

Feeding

• Feed in early spring with a balanced slow-release fertiliser

• Container plants benefit from a liquid feed during the growing season

Pruning

• Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape

• Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches

• Avoid heavy pruning, which can reduce flowering the following year

• Excellent candidate for decorative and bonsai-style pruning

Hardiness

• Fully hardy in the UK

• Suitable for gardens, patios, and cold winters once established

Pests & Diseases

• Generally trouble-free

• Occasionally affected by aphids or fungal leaf issues

• Good airflow and well-drained soil help prevent problems

Ideal Uses

• Feature shrub for small gardens

• Patio and container planting

• Rock gardens and courtyard spaces

• Japanese-style gardens

• Bonsai and sculptural pruning projects

Why Choose Prunus ‘Kojo-no-mai’?

Prunus ‘Kojo-no-mai’ is perfect if you want the beauty of cherry blossom in a compact, manageable form. With its graceful structure, early spring flowers, and vibrant autumn colour, it offers year-round interest and elegance—especially where space is at a premium. 🌸🌿