Prunus serrula, commonly known as Tibetan Cherry or Birch Bark Cherry, is a small deciduous tree native to the forested hills and mountains of Tibet and western China. It is celebrated for its ornamental value, particularly the striking, glossy, coppery-red bark that peels away in layers, resembling paper or birch bark. This feature makes it a standout in the winter garden. The tree typically grows to a height of 20–30 feet (6–9 meters) with a spread of 15–25 feet (4.5–7.5 meters). It often has multiple stems and a rounded form. The leaves are simple, alternate, 5–10 cm long, and 1.5–2.0 cm broad with a serrate margin. In spring, it produces small, white flowers in clusters of one to three, followed by small, oval, bright red drupes.

The Tibetan Cherry is valued for its year-round beauty, including its bark, which provides winter interest, and its white spring flowers. It is used in cultivation for ornamental purposes in urban settings, residential gardens, and parks. It thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers well-drained soils with a wide pH range, making it adaptable to various garden conditions. It is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 8. While it is generally low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to diseases such as fire blight and powdery mildew, as well as pests like Japanese beetles. Gardeners should monitor for these potential problems to maintain the tree’s health and appearance.CC BY-SA 4.0