Sand Cherry

(Prunus pumila)

Sand Cherry (Prunus pumila)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Prunus pumila, commonly known as Sand Cherry, is a deciduous shrub native to dunes, sandy prairies, and lakeshores in the Great Lakes region, upper Midwest United States, and parts of Canada. It typically grows to 0.61–1.83 meters (2–6 feet) tall and can spread widely, forming dense clonal colonies through sprouts from its root system. The Sand Cherry is characterized by its small, fragrant flowers, each 15–25 millimeters (9⁄16–1 inch) in diameter with five white petals and 25–30 stamens, blooming in small clusters of two to four in late spring. The fruit is a small cherry, 13–15 mm (1⁄2–9⁄16 inch) in diameter, ripening to dark purple in early summer and is often used in jams and jellies.

The Sand Cherry is valued for its hardiness and drought tolerance, making it suitable for xeriscaping. It is also appreciated for its attractive spring flowers and edible fruit. This shrub is commonly used in naturalized plantings, as a ground cover, or in borders, especially in areas with challenging growing conditions. It thrives in full sun and requires well-drained soils, preferably sandy, with low water needs once established. While generally low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to pests such as borers and diseases like black knot. Pruning may be necessary to maintain its shape and encourage new growth.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub
  • Height: 2-6 feet
  • Width: 5-8 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: White
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Low
  • Drainage: Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Erosion Control, Fire Resistant, Groundcover, Hedges, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Salt Tolerant, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Dunes, sandy prairies, and lakeshores in the Great Lakes region, upper Midwest United States, and parts of Canada

Other Names

Common Names: Dwarf Sand Plum, Sandcherry, Sandkirsche, Cerisier De Sable, Cerisier Nain, Ragouminier, Cerisier Des Sables

Scientific Names: , Prunus pumila, Cerasus floribunda, Cerasus prostrata, Prunus pumula,

GBIF Accepted Name: Prunus pumila L.