Tree
Wild cherry
Prunus avium
A large deciduous tree with white spring blossom and fruit also eaten by birds. The species develops a broad crown; fruit cultivars on selected rootstocks can be much smaller. It needs sun and space to grow.
- Size
- 15–20 m high · 10–15 m wideVaries by cultivar
- Light
- Full sun
- Water
- Moderate
- Winter
- Very hardy
- Seasonal form
- Deciduous
- Maintenance
- Moderate
Before planting
- Allow for a large tree, not a dwarf orchard cultivar. In favourable conditions the species can exceed 20 m in height.
- Choose sun and well-drained, moisture-retentive soil without prolonged waterlogging.
- For crops, check the cultivar, rootstock and pollination compatibility. Not every sweet cherry fruits reliably without a partner.
Why choose it
- White flowers make a strong spring display and attract visiting insects.
- The fruit provides food for birds as well.
Care
- Water young trees during establishment and prolonged drought.
- Prune when needed, usually in summer after harvest and in dry weather; avoid routine winter pruning.
- Watch for suckers and crown problems. Fruit production may need extra care; keep prunings away from pets and livestock.
Good to know
- Edible flesh does not make all parts safe. Do not eat the seeds inside the stones or the stalks, and do not crush stones with the fruit.
- The tree's high winter hardiness does not automatically protect its flowers from late frost.