Sour cherry - Prunus cerasus (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images, Toxic)

Sour cherry

Also known as: Tart cherry, Amarelle cherry

Sour cherry (*Prunus cerasus*) is a fruit-bearing plant that produces cherries in Turkey, Russia, Poland, and Ukraine. As the common name indicates, the sour cherry cherries have a sour taste. They are used for a variety of culinary dishes, most commonly for desserts.

Scientific classification

Species

Sour cherry (Prunus cerasus)

Roses, elms, figs, and allies

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Toxic to Human & Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Tree, Shrub

Plant Type

Spring

Bloom Time

Summer

Harvest Time

3.5 m to 10 m

Plant Height

4.5 m to 6 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2.5 cm to 5 cm

Flower Size

Red

Fruit Color

White, Pink, Brown, Gray

Flower Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring

Growth Season

Images of Sour cherry

Distribution of Sour cherry

Distribution Map

Sour cherry is indigenous to the temperate regions of Europe and Southwest Asia. It has been introduced and is now widespread across various parts of the Eurasian continent and in some areas of South America and Oceania. Globally, sour cherry is well-established both in its native range and as a cultivated plant in numerous temperate regions.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Hedges

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Sour cherry is a popular tree prized for its cold-weather hardiness and fragrant blossoms that turn into small fruits. The tree is commonly used as an ornamental garden plant in colder climates and for its acidic fruit. Plant lavender, rosemary, marigolds, and dandelions to attract pollinators and to add contrasting colors.

Symbolism

Precariousness

Interesting Facts

The world's biggest grower of sour cherry is Russia, and the species originates from that part of the world, where it has been cultivated for thousands of years. Indeed, the fruit was known to the Ancient Greeks, Persians and Romans, the last of whom introduced it to Britain in ancient times.

Name Story

Sour cherry: Prunus cerasus is a species of Prunus in the subgenus Cerasus (cherries) and native to most parts of Europe and southwest Asia. It is closely related to the sweet cherry but its fruit is more acidic, so it is called sour cherry.

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Toxicity

Prunus genus, including sour cherry, has toxic parts, especially twigs and seeds, containing hydrogen cyanide. Consumption causes severe symptoms: shortness of breath, pupil dilation, weakness, and potentially loss of consciousness or death. People might ingest seeds inadvertently.

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Quickly Identify Sour cherry

Deciduous habit reaching 16-26 feet (5-8 meters) in height.

Conspicuous white to pinkish spring blossoms before leaves emerge.

Globular fruits 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter, red to dark purple.

Smooth, ovate green leaves with serrated margins and 2 basal glands.

Gray-brown twigs with reddish buds, alternate branching, and bushy appearance.

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Care Guide for Sour cherry

Every 2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Sour cherry thrives in temperate regions, tolerating short droughts while benefiting from consistent moisture. Water every two weeks, ensuring well-draining soil to prevent root rot. Proper water management is essential during the growing season for healthy fruit development.

Fertilize: For sour cherry, apply balanced fertilizers bi-monthly in spring and summer, ensuring proper rates based on tree size. This promotes growth and fruit quality while avoiding over-fertilization. Lighter feeding is recommended in fall. Utilize slow-release options for consistent nutrient supply for optimal health and productivity.

Pruning: Sour cherry should be pruned in late winter to remove dead branches and thin the canopy for better air circulation. This enhances fruit production and plant health. Optimal pruning during dormancy minimizes stress and fosters strong spring growth, ensuring a healthy, productive sour cherry.

Propagation: Sour cherry is a deciduous tree known for its tart fruit, often propagated through cuttings. Select healthy, semi-hardwood stems, use rooting hormone, and plant in well-draining soil. Ensure consistent moisture and warmth, protecting young plants from extreme weather to support their transition outdoors.

Repotting: Repot sour cherry every 2-3 years to support root growth, ideally in early spring. Use a larger pot with good drainage, water thoroughly after repotting, and place in sunlight. Regular pruning enhances growth and harvests. Remember, sour cherry thrives on consistency!

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Images of Sour cherry

Distribution of Sour cherry

Culture

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Sour cherry

Care Guide for Sour cherry

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