Many fruit trees, both ornamental and orchard types belong to the same diverse family of trees that bear stone fruits. Cherries, peaches, apricots, plums, almonds, and others are all members of this clan. Some are evergreen and others lose their leaves every fall. Some are small dwarf type shrubs and others are huge trees. Cherry trees are a favorite in American yards. While some types of these familiar trees are grown primarily for their fruit, many others are valued for their ornamental qualities. Both kinds grace residential lawns and gardens with their lovely spring flowers and attractive shapes.
Many of those that are used exclusively to decorate the landscape bear no fruit or it is inconsequential. Their flowers are their chief product. Because these strictly ornamental varieties come to us from Japan, they are often called Japanese cherry trees or Oriental cherry trees.