Bitter Cherry

Bitter Cherry (Prunus emarginata) - The Wild Ornament of the Woods

Other Common Names Include: Oregon Cherry, Wild Cherry.

Embrace the Bitter Cherry: The Bitter Cherry, with its captivating spring blossoms and vibrant fall foliage, brings a slice of wild beauty to your landscape. This native treasure is more than just a tree; it's a celebration of the changing seasons, offering visual delight and ecological benefits.

Seasonal Showcase:

• Spring: Bursting into life with clusters of white flowers, the Bitter Cherry heralds the arrival of warmer days. Its blossoms are a magnet for pollinators, buzzing with activity.
• Summer: The foliage remains a lush green, providing cool shade. By late summer, small, red to almost black cherries form, offering a stark contrast against the leaves.
• Autumn: Leaves turn to vibrant shades of yellow and orange, lighting up the landscape with autumnal fire.
• Winter: As the tree sheds its leaves, the stark, reddish-brown bark and remaining fruit provide stark visual interest against the barren winter backdrop.

Ideal Planting Conditions: The Bitter Cherry thrives in a variety of soil types, from well-drained to moist conditions, and prefers full sun to partial shade. It's adaptable, making it suitable for naturalized areas, woodland gardens, or as an accent in a more cultivated outdoor space.

Watering Needs: This tree is relatively drought-tolerant once established but benefits from occasional watering during prolonged dry periods, ensuring it remains a vibrant part of your landscape.

Growth and Form: Growing to a height of 15-30 feet with a similar spread, the Bitter Cherry has a moderate growth rate and a rounded form. Its size and shape make it an excellent choice for adding structure and shade to your landscape.

Why Plant the Bitter Cherry? Opting for the Bitter Cherry means inviting a piece of the forest into your yard. Its seasonal changes offer year-round interest, from the springtime floral display to the autumn leaf color. The tree supports local wildlife, providing food and habitat, and adds a touch of wild charm to your landscape.

Incorporate the Bitter Cherry into your outdoor area for a blend of ornamental beauty, ecological support, and a year-round celebration of nature's cycles.