Prunus avium
wild cherry
P. avium is a medium-sized deciduous tree with nodding clusters of pure white flowers 2.5cm wide in late spring, followed by small, shiny red-purple cherries; leaves turn orange and red in autumn
Other common names
bird cherryCheshire merry tree
see morecrab cherry
gean
hagberry
mazzard
merry tree
Suffolk merries
sweet cherry
Size
Ultimate height
Higher than 12 metresTime to ultimate height
20–50 yearsUltimate spread
Wider than 8 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | White | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | |||
| Autumn | Orange Red | Purple Red | ||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
North–facing or West–facing or East–facing or South–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H6Botanical details
- Family
- Rosaceae
- Native to the UK
- Yes
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Prunus can be deciduous or evergreen trees or shrubs with showy flowers in spring, and often good autumn foliage colour. Some have edible fruit in autumn, and a few species have ornamental bark
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Europe to Asia Minor, Caucasus, W Siberia
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in moderately fertile soil in full sun
Propagation
Propagate by chip budding or grafting, although softwood cuttings in early summer with bottom heat can be successful. Can be propagated by seed - see trees and shrubs from seed
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Wildflower meadow
- Wildlife gardens
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Pruning group 1. Prune in mid-summer if silver leaf is a problem
Pests
May get aphids, caterpillars, leaf-mining moths and bullfinches
Diseases
May be affected by silver leaf, bacterial canker and blossom wilt. High Risk Host for Xylella fastidiosa
Get involved
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