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Figure 99 The seven Chinese gods of fortune and happiness in their treasure ship. Daikoku is leaning on a bale of rice (right foreground), and Fukurokuju, with his prominent, bald skull, is behind him. Two cultivars were named after these gods. From the magazine Shinsen
The double flowers of 'Daikoku' are superior in shape and color, 5.05.5 cm in diameter, and a pure pink, without any purplish hue. In this aspect they resemble those of 'Pink Perfection'. 'Daikoku', however, is more robust and lacks the sometimes leafless, twiggy, and hanging branches that may give 'Pink Perfection' a less desirable ragged appearance. In the open heart of the flower of 'Daikoku' one may see two to four phylloid carpels, hence the association with the flowers of 'Fugenzo'. The remarkably dark red flower buds have a blunt top, looking a little plump. This healthy and vigorous cherry is reportedly used in Australia for roadside plantings. Prunus 'Daikoku' Less current synonyms: (not Ko-fugen, not Beni-fugen) Description: Tree stiff, narrow vase-shaped, more upright than 'Pink Perfection', to 7 m high. Young foliage green, slightly bronze, but not bronze-green as 'Pink Perfection'. Fully developed leaves usually have a single serration, always rather coarse and without glands. Stipules rather deeply bi-