Rocky Mountain Chokecherry (Prunus virginiana melanocarpa)

Family: Rosaceae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Prunus virginiana melanocarpa is a deciduous Shrub growing to 3.6 m (11ft 10in). 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. 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

flavour, it can also be dried and is then quite nice raw. — Fruit - raw or cooked.; The fruit must be fully ripe otherwise it is very astringent.; This sub-species is larger and less astringent than P.; virginiana and some forms can be quite nice raw.

Habitat & North American Range

Prairies and valleys. Moist soils along creeks in valleys and on hills and mountainsides to about 2,500 metres. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)