Bitter Cherry

Prunus emarginata

Photo Credit: By Dcrjsr - Own work, CC BY 3.0

a cluster of red cherries hanging from branch

Plant Description

Bitter cherry is a deciduous, thicket-forming shrub or small tree with fragrant white 5-petalled flowers in April and May. Small red to black fruit are a favorite of birds. The bark is chocolate brown with reddish raised lines and the oval leaves turn yellow in autumn. It is a great option for hedgerows and woodland gardens.

Plant Details

Life Forms	Shrub
Habitats	Forest openings Hillsides Riparian areas
Soil and Moisture Conditions	Dry to moist Rocky or gravelly soil Sandy soil
Special Uses	Erosion control Provides soil stabilization Provides wildlife habitat Restoration/revegetation
Shade Preference	Full sun Part shade
Mature Height	up to 25'