Bird cherry (Prunus padus)

Bird cherry

Also known as: Hagberry, Mayday tree

Bird cherry (Prunus padus) is a small deciduous cherry tree in the subgenus Padus. This species is native to Europe, where it is also known as the Mayday tree because of its historical importance in spring (May Day) festivals. The bird cherry is pollinated by bees and flies. The leaves, stems, and fruits of this species can be toxic to some mammals. In the past, the bark of this tree was traditionally placed near doorways as a spiritual gesture to ward off the plague.

Scientific classification

Species

Bird cherry (Prunus padus)

Roses, elms, figs, and allies

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Toxic to Pets

Toxicity

Tree, Shrub

Plant Type

Spring, Early summer

Bloom Time

Spring, Summer, Fall

Harvest Time

5 m to 16 m

Plant Height

15 m

Spread

Green, Yellow, Red

Leaf Color

5 mm to 9 mm

Flower Size

Black, Red

Fruit Color

White

Flower Color

Green, White, Yellow, Black

Stem Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

Images of Bird cherry

Distribution of Bird cherry

Distribution Map

Bird cherry is naturally distributed across the temperate regions of the northern hemisphere, thriving in a broad range of temperate forests and woodlands. It has also been introduced and cultivated in other parts of the world, expanding its presence beyond its original native range. Prominent in cultivation, bird cherry adapts to various climates, furthering its geographical span.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

By streams and in moist open woods,.

Culture

Garden Use

Bird cherry is a pretty, compact ornamental tree grown in gardens for its beautiful, pollinator-attracting flowers, its striking, bird-attracting red-black cherries, and its adaptability to different soils and light conditions. It is generally used in gardens to enhance curb appeal at streetside, as a specimen tree, or as part of a spring-flowering display.

Interesting Facts

Although birds really love the berries of Prunus padus, they are quite bitter due to their tannin content, and therefore rarely consumed by humans. Bird-cherry is a host plant of the bird cherry-oat aphid (Rhopalosiphum padi) and the bird cherry ermine moth (Yponomeuta evonymella), but these species don't cause any serious damage to trees.

Name Story

Bird cherry||European bird cherry||Hagberry||Hackberry: As the name suggests, birds like to feed on bird cherry. The birds feeding on cherries can cause a significant problem in horticulture but on the other hand, Prunus padus benefits from it because birds disperse its seeds, helping it to reproduce. The fruit of Prunus padus is often referred to as hackberry or hugberry in the English language.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Bird cherry, including the following common varieties :

Bird cherry 'Colorata'Bird cherry 'Watereri'

Toxicity

Bird cherry is mildly toxic to humans, dogs, and cats. All parts of the plant contain glycosides, prulaurasin, and amygdalin, which can metabolize into hydrogen cyanide. Symptoms include dizziness, headache, nausea, and abdominal pain. Immediate veterinary care is essential if poisoning is suspected.

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Care Guide for Bird cherry

Every 3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Bird cherry prefers moderate moisture and should be watered every three weeks. While resilient, it can endure periods of reduced hydration. When grown outdoors, its growth cycles adapt to local rain patterns, influencing its water intake and overall health.

Fertilize: Bird cherry thrives with balanced nutrition, especially early spring. Use a slow-release fertilizer annually, avoiding over-fertilization to prevent root burn. Adjust fertilization in late summer for dormancy and prioritize lighter, frequent applications for young plants. Always water thoroughly post-fertilization for optimal nutrient uptake.

Pruning: Bird cherry is a deciduous tree with fragrant white blossoms. Prune in late winter while dormant to promote growth and flowering. Remove dead or crossed branches for structure and airflow, reducing pests and diseases. Regular pruning enhances health and encourages vigorous growth and abundant blooms.

Propagation: Bird cherry is a deciduous tree or shrub from northern Europe and Asia, known for its fragrant white flowers. Propagate using semi-hardwood cuttings in midsummer, ensuring they're healthy, a few inches long, and treated with rooting hormone. Maintain moisture in well-draining soil for successful rooting.

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