This low-growing shrub is producing a show of attractive single flowers on the Chronological Bed.
One of approximately 200 species occurring in the temperate northern hemisphere, Prunus tenella is distinct in its shrubby, low, spreading habit. In the wild it occurs in Europe and temperate Asia, and has the common name of dwarf Russian almond. It was first introduced into cultivation in the mid to late seventeenth century. Single pale pink to deep rose-pink flowers develop in the buds of the previous year’s growth, emerging before the obovate-oblong leaves. Downy almond-like fruits may also be produced. This species naturally spreads by layering, but it can also be grafted, though this removes the spreading and layering habit.