The Purple Leaf Sand Cherry (Prunus x cistena) is a popular ornamental shrub or small tree, cherished for its striking deep purple-red foliage and delicate pink to white flowers that emerge in spring. This deciduous plant adds a vibrant contrast to landscapes, with its foliage color intensifying throughout the growing season. Known for its relatively fast growth rate and adaptability, the sand cherry is a favored choice for various garden designs, from hedges to specimen plantings.
Planting and Site Selection
Sand cherries flourish in locations that receive full sun, at least six hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and vibrant foliage color. Partial shade is tolerated, but insufficient light can lead to reduced vigor and less intense purple foliage. The plant adapts to various soil types but performs best in moist, well-draining soil. Good drainage is important; roots are prone to rot in waterlogged conditions.
When planting, dig a hole at least six inches wider than the root ball and deep enough for the top of the root ball to be level with the soil surface. For bare-root specimens, ensure the hole accommodates roots without bending. After placing the plant, backfill the hole with soil, gently tamping to remove air pockets. Water thoroughly to help the soil settle.
Ongoing Care Requirements
Consistent moisture is important, especially during the first growing season to establish a strong root system. One watering per week is typically sufficient, though more frequent watering may be necessary during hot, dry periods or after transplanting. Watering at the base prevents crown rot and ensures moisture reaches roots effectively. Once established, they demonstrate some drought tolerance but benefit from regular watering during extended dry spells.
While tolerant of average soil fertility, sand cherries benefit from fertilization, especially in poorer soils. A balanced, slow-release fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10 NPK) applied in early spring as buds swell, encourages healthy growth and foliage color. Avoid over-fertilization, particularly with high nitrogen, as this can lead to excessive leaf growth at the expense of overall plant health. A two to four-inch layer of organic mulch around the base helps to conserve soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Keep mulch a few inches away from the trunk to prevent moisture buildup and disease issues.
Pruning Sand Cherries
Pruning maintains the sand cherry’s shape, promotes air circulation, and removes undesirable growth. The ideal time for pruning is late winter to early spring, before new growth emerges, or immediately after spring bloom. Pruning after flowering allows blossoms to set while providing ample time for recovery.
When pruning, remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches, cutting them back to healthy wood or to the main stem. Thinning cuts, which remove entire branches, improve air circulation within the canopy and allow more light to penetrate. Heading cuts, which shorten branches, encourage bushier growth and maintain the desired size and shape. Regularly removing suckers from the base helps direct the plant’s energy towards its main structure.
Common Issues and Solutions
Sand cherries, like many Prunus species, are susceptible to various pests and diseases, which can sometimes lead to a shorter lifespan. Common insect pests include:
- Aphids
- Borers
- Japanese beetles
- Scale
- Spider mites
- Tent caterpillars
Japanese beetles are particularly drawn to foliage and can cause significant damage. Regularly inspecting plants for signs of infestation (e.g., holes in leaves or sticky residue) allows for early intervention. Many pests can be managed with a strong spray of water to dislodge them or by using insecticidal soaps.
Diseases that can affect sand cherries include:
- Powdery mildew
- Leaf spot
- Black knot
- Cankers
Powdery mildew appears as white, powdery growth on leaves, often in humid conditions. Ensuring good air circulation through proper spacing and pruning helps prevent fungal issues. For leaf spots (discolored patches on foliage), removing affected leaves and improving air circulation is beneficial. Maintaining overall plant health through appropriate watering and feeding increases the sand cherry’s resilience against these common problems.
Winter Care
Sand cherries are hardy in USDA Zones 2 through 8, indicating their ability to withstand cold winter temperatures. Despite their cold tolerance, providing some winter care helps ensure their continued health, especially in colder hardiness zones. Late-season watering before the ground freezes provides the plant with sufficient moisture to endure the dry winter months.
A two to four-inch layer of mulch around the base of the sand cherry provides insulation for its root system, protecting it from extreme temperature fluctuations. This mulch layer should not touch the trunk to prevent moisture accumulation. In areas with significant snow or browsing animals, protective measures such as winter wraps or tree guards help prevent physical damage. For container-grown sand cherries, protecting roots from freezing is especially important, achievable by wrapping the container or moving it to a sheltered location.