Dwarf American Cherry (Prunus pumila)

Family: Rosaceae | Edibility: Choice Edible (4/5)

Prunus pumila is a deciduous Shrub growing to 0.6 m (2ft) by 1 m (3ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 2. It is in flower in May, and the seeds ripen in August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit, Berries, Nuts/Seeds

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Late Summer, Fall, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

rich and pleasantly acid taste when fully ripe though they are sometimes slightly bitter. — Fruit - raw or cooked.; A reasonable size, up to 10mm in diameter with one large seed, this is the largest of the N.; American cherries.; A rich and pleasantly acid taste when fully ripe though they are sometimes slightly bitter.

Habitat & North American Range

Dunes and sand, or on calcareous rocky shores. (Zone 3, Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)