Sand cherry - Prunus pumila (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Sand cherry

Also known as: Sandcherry, Eastern Sandcherry , Low sand cherry, Susquehana cherry

Sand cherry (Prunus pumila) is a member of the rose family. You’ll find it in places where’s there’s lots of sand, such as beaches and dunes. Purplish fruit makes an appearance in summer after the blooms fall off. You can eat these cherries, but they’re not as tasty as other kinds. Another name for this species is dwarf sand plum.

Scientific classification

Species

Sand cherry (Prunus pumila)

Roses, elms, figs, and allies

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Toxic to Pets

Toxicity

61 cm to 1.8 m

Plant Height

1 m

Spread

Green, Orange

Leaf Color

1.5 cm to 2.5 cm

Flower Size

White

Flower Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

0 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer

Growth Season

Slow

Growth Rate

Images of Sand cherry

Attributes of Sand cherry

Growth Rate

With a slow growth rate, sand cherry subtly densifies its understory during spring, affording it enhanced resilience to winds and erosion. In summer, this deliberate pace allows controlled maturation for its dark purple berries. Slow growth also results in a dense root system, beneficial for dune stabilization.

Distribution of Sand cherry

Distribution Map

Sand cherry, a plant with various cultivars, is native to the temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, thriving in various climates across this broad geographic expanse. Introduced beyond its original range, sand cherry has found a place in parts of Eastern Europe. Cultivated specimens of sand cherry are found in gardens and landscapes, appreciated for their ornamental qualities.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Sandy prairies, woodland edges, stream valleys, roadsides

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Toxicity

Sand cherry is mildly toxic to humans, cats, and dogs, mainly through ingestion. With the exception of the ripe flesh, all parts can release hydrogen cyanide, causing symptoms like difficulty breathing, dizziness, and nausea. In severe cases, it may lead to convulsions or coma. Immediate medical or veterinary care is crucial if sand cherry is ingested.

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Care Guide for Sand cherry

Every 3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

0 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Sand cherry thrives in temperate regions with moderate moisture and prefers well-drained soils. Once established, it has moderate drought tolerance. Water sparingly, ideally every three weeks, and ensure consistent soil moisture during colder dormant periods. Typically grown outdoors due to size and growth habit.

Fertilize: For sand cherry, use a balanced fertilizer once in spring as buds swell, following label instructions. Avoid over-fertilization to prevent damage. Post-fruiting, reduce applications, diluting for direct root delivery. Both novices and experts should monitor plant response and adjust as needed for optimal health.

Pruning: Known for drought tolerance and ornamental value, sand cherry benefits from selective pruning in late spring. Trim dead branches first, enhance airflow by thinning dense areas, and regularly remove suckers. Proper pruning improves health, growth, and shape, promoting a vigorous and attractive plant.

Propagation: Propagate sand cherry using semi-hardwood cuttings from healthy plants. Select stems with multiple nodes, cut at 45 degrees, and remove lower leaves. Use rooting hormone, plant in well-draining mix, and maintain moisture. Once rooted, transfer to a location with full sun and well-drained soil.

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