Ornamental Peach (Prunus Persica ‘Bonfire’)

Ornamental Peach

Features and Characteristics

Prunus persica, commonly called peach, is native to China. It is grown for its luscious fruit but ornamental cultivars are grown chiefly for their flowers and inedible fruit. Species trees grow up to 25′ tall and wide but ornamental peach trees sold in commerce today are grafted to rootstocks which control the size of the tree.

Genus name from Latin means plum or cherry tree.

Specific epithet means Persia. Prunus persica reached Europe from China through Persia.

‘Bonfire’ is a dwarf shrub which typically grows to 5′ tall in 5 years. Features attractive, dark red leaves which hold their color throughout the growing season. Double pink-red flowers are produced in very early spring. Inedible peach-like fruits mature in summer but are often hidden from view by the dense foliage.

Care and Maintenance

Grow in average, medium moisture, well-drained soil in full sun. Prefers moist, acidic soils.

Ornamental Peach (Prunus Persica ‘Bonfire’) Requirements

Hardiness zone	5 - 8
Sun light	Full Sun
Water	Medium
Maintenance	High

Common Problems

Peaches generally are susceptible to numerous insect problems, including peach twig borer, aphids, spider mites and scale. Also susceptible to numerous disease problems, including peach scab, peach leaf curl, leaf spots, bacterial canker, root rot and mildew. Flowering may be impaired by cold winter temperatures and/or late frosts.

Uses

Grown primarily for its profuse, early spring bloom and persistent dark red foliage. Interesting as a specimen or mixed in the shrub border.

Ornamental Peach (Prunus Persica ‘Bonfire’) Details

Common name	Ornamental Peach
Botanical name	Prunus Persica 'Bonfire'
Plant type	Deciduous Shrub
Family	Rosaceae
Hardiness zone	5 - 8
Water	Medium
Maintenance	High
Flower color	Pink To Red
Flowering period	April
Height	4 - 6 Ft.
Width	4 - 6 Ft.