Prunus cerasifera 'Oakville Crimson Spire' holds deep crimson-purple foliage on a tight upright column, delivering strong seasonal colour in a footprint narrow enough for a nature strip or a side boundary. Pale pink blossom covers the bare frame in early spring before the foliage emerges.
'Oakville Crimson Spire' grows to 8 to 12 metres tall but only 3 to 4 metres wide at 30 to 60 centimetres per year, giving a genuinely columnar habit that needs no pruning to maintain. It is widely specified for streetscapes, driveway avenues and civic plantings where canopy width has to be controlled.
This is a frost hardy tree that survives heavy and frequent frost without damage, and foliage colour is strongest where winters are cold. It grows in full sun to part shade, though the deepest crimson tones develop in an open sunny position.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Prunus cerasifera 'Oakville Crimson Spire'
How tall and wide does 'Oakville Crimson Spire' grow?
It reaches 8 to 12 metres tall and only 3 to 4 metres wide, holding a distinctly columnar form. The narrow width is its defining feature and the reason it is used as a street tree.
What colour is the foliage?
Foliage is deep crimson-purple and holds that colour through the growing season rather than fading to bronze or green, which gives a long season of interest.
When does it flower?
Pale pink blossom covers the bare branches in early spring, before the foliage emerges. The display typically lasts two to three weeks.
Is 'Oakville Crimson Spire' deciduous?
Yes. It is fully deciduous, dropping its foliage through autumn and flowering on bare wood the following spring.
Does it need pruning to stay narrow?
No. The columnar habit is natural and holds without intervention. Remove any crossing or damaged wood in winter, but formative pruning is not required.
How far apart should I plant it for an avenue?
Plant 2.5 to 3 metres apart for a continuous columnar avenue, or 3 to 4 metres apart where each tree should read separately.
Is it frost hardy?
Yes. It survives heavy and frequent frost without damage, and cold winters actually improve both blossom and foliage colour.