Lower Risk

Prunus subhirtella (Weeping Higan Cherry, Weeping Japanese Cherry)

(Cerasus subhirtella, Prunus itosakura var. subhirtella)

This small deciduous flowering tree is native to Japan and has been in the ornamental plant trade in Australia since 1895. Although the species has not become naturalised in Australia, it has naturalised in parts of USA with similar climate to parts of NSW. There is no evidence that P. subhirtella has become invasive in any part of the world. However, a member of the same genus, Prunus serotina, is regarded as invasive in Germany, Poland, Denmark and the Netherlands. The plant produces seeds which are dispersed by small animals such as squirrels. The climate conditions of its native range are moderately similar to parts of NSW. Weeping Higan Cherry produces an attractive display of flowers in spring before new leaves appear.