Bitter Cherry - Prunus emarginata (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Bitter Cherry

Also known as: Quinine Cherry

Bitter Cherry (Prunus emarginata) is indigenous to western North America. The fruit is undesirably bitter, but many animals feast on the leaves, including deer, livestock, and cedar waxwing birds. Bitter Cherry spreads very readily by seed or aerial shoots and is considered a weed tree in many areas. The bark has been used by natives for wrapping tools and the branches for creating arrows.

Scientific classification

Species

Bitter Cherry (Prunus emarginata)

Roses, elms, figs, and allies

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Toxic to Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Tree

Plant Type

Spring

Bloom Time

91 cm to 9 m

Plant Height

3 m

Spread

2.5 cm to 5 cm

Flower Size

White

Flower Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

Images of Bitter Cherry

Attributes of Bitter Cherry

Growth Rate

Exhibiting a moderate growth rate, bitter Cherry undergoes significant transformation in spring. This growth pace enables balanced development, with steady increase in height and foliage expansion. Concurrent leafage depicts the plant's adaptability, with visible variations in growth rate viewed in different seasons. Its moderate speed balances the plant's energy throughout the spring, ensuring sustainable evolution and preventing exhaustive growth spurts. This pace offers horticultural advantages, facilitating care and maintenance, while lending to the plant's durability and resilience.

Culture

Symbolism

Love, Divination

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Toxicity

Bitter Cherry is highly toxic to both cats and dogs. Ingestion of stems, leaves, or seeds can cause severe symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and difficulty breathing. Immediate veterinary attention is essential to ensure the well-being of the affected animals. Prevention of access to these toxic parts is crucial for pet safety.

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Care Guide for Bitter Cherry

Every 3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Bitter Cherry prefers moderate moisture and well-drained soil. Once established, it requires watering every three weeks and is drought-tolerant. Its irrigation needs should consider local climate zones, as seasonal rainfall can naturally supplement water requirements, minimizing manual intervention.

Fertilize: Bitter Cherry requires balanced nutrition for optimal health. Apply a complete slow-release fertilizer at bud break and mid-summer, adjusting quantities based on growth stages. Distribute evenly at the drip line to avoid root burn, ensuring bitter Cherry's vitality and productivity while fostering natural resilience.

Pruning: Bitter Cherry thrives with annual pruning in early spring, just before new growth. Key techniques include removing dead branches, thinning for air circulation, and shaping for aesthetics. Clean, sharp tools are essential to maintain health and encourage vibrant flowering.

Propagation: Bitter Cherry thrives through specific propagation methods like semi-hardwood cuttings using healthy, disease-free stems. Utilize rooting hormone and a well-draining medium, maintaining consistent moisture and warmth while avoiding waterlogging to ensure successful root development and robust growth.

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