wild cherry

Prunus avium

tree☀️ full sun💧💧 moderate waterZone 3a – Zone 8b

A vigorous deciduous tree valued for its white spring blossoms and dark red to black cherries that attract wildlife. It develops attractive dark bark and golden fall color.

Overview

Form: Rounded
Growth Rate: fast
Size: 40–80′ tall × 30–50′ wide
Dormancy: deciduous

Tolerances & Soil

USDA Hardiness Zone

Zone 3a

Zone 8b

Seasonality

Bloom Season

Harvest Season

Season of Interest

SpringSummerFall

Forest Layer Placement

Canopy

The tallest trees that form the overstory.

Succession Role

pioneerearly successional

Native Range

Europe and western Asia

Function & Care

Functional Roles

ediblehedgerowpollinator nectarywildlife benefit

Edible Parts

fruit

Establishment & Care

Establishment: easy
Maintenance: low
Years to Bearing: 3 years
Propagation: seed, cutting, grafting

Companion Planting

Plants well with

Flowering Crabapple

Malus floribunda

Anecdotal

Co-flowering wild cherry and crabapple ensure cross-pollination for both species. Their flowering sequences support diverse beneficial insect populations.

Almond

Prunus dulcis

Anecdotal

Almond and wild cherry produce flowers at overlapping times, attracting diverse pollinator populations that benefit both species. They are compatible Prunus relatives.

Notable Cultivars

'Bing' and 'Rainier' are among the most commercially popular, prized for large, sweet fruit and reliable production. 'Stella' is a self-fertile cultivar that simplifies home growing by not requiring a separate pollinator tree.