Chinese Sour Cherry

(Prunus pseudocerasus)

Chinese Sour Cherry (Prunus pseudocerasus)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Prunus pseudocerasus, commonly known as Chinese sour cherry or Chinese cherry, is a deciduous tree native to mountainous regions and forest edges in China. It is a small to medium-sized tree that can grow up to 26 feet (8 meters) tall and wide, with a bushy habit. The Chinese sour cherry is particularly noted for its reddish buds that open to pale pink flowers in early spring, which are moderately showy and attract pollinators. Following the flowering period, the tree produces small, tart red cherries that are typically harvested for culinary uses. The fruit is also appreciated by wildlife.

The Chinese sour cherry is valued for its early spring blossoms, which make it a popular ornamental tree in gardens and parks. It is also used for its fruit in culinary applications, particularly in China and Japan, where it has been cultivated for millennia. This tree is relatively easy to maintain, requiring full sun to part shade and well-drained soil. It is moderately drought-tolerant once established and has a good resistance to cherry leaf spot, a common disease among Prunus species. While it is not typically grown for timber, the wood of Prunus pseudocerasus is hard and can be used for crafting small items.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree
  • Height: 10-20 feet
  • Width: 10-15 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: White
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Hedges, Low Maintenance, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Native to mountainous regions and forest edges in China

Other Names

Common Names: False Cherry, Karao-Mizukura, Shina Oto, Ying Tao Cherry

Scientific Names: , Prunus pseudocerasus, Cerasus cantabrigiensis, Cerasus pseudocerasus, Cerasus pseudocerasus, Cerasus pseudocerasus, Cerasus pseudocerasus, Cerasus pseudocerasus subsp. chinensis, Cerasus pseudocerasus subsp. flore-albopleno, Cerasus scopulorum

GBIF Accepted Name: