Bird Cherry
Prunus padus
Also known as
Black Dogwood, Common Bird Cherry, Eggberry, Hackberry, Hagberry, Hedgeberry, Hog Cherry, European Bird Cherry, Mayday Tree
Image-Bird cherry blossom (Prunus padus in Finnish tuomi) by Pöllö (CC BY 3.0)
Full Sun
Moderate watering
Frost Hardy
7a
USDA zone
-18°C
Minimum temperature
Expected size
Height | Spread | |
---|---|---|
15m | Max | 8m |
12m | Min | 4m |
50 years to reach maturity
Fruiting
-
spring
-
summer
-
autumn
-
winter


More images of Bird Cherry
Bird Cherry Overview
Prunus padus is commonly known by the names Bird Cherry, Black Dogwood, Hackberry and Mayday tree, amongst others. It originates from northern Europe and northern Asia. Bird Cherry is a deciduous tree species from the Rosaceae family. Grown for the attractive autumn colouration, and scented white blooms. Leaves are oval and finely toothed, turning yellow in the autumn. The 5-petalled, white flowers measure around 1cm across, appearing from late spring in clusters. Leading onto small, black fruits with a bitter taste. Grow in full sun, in moist, well-draining soil. Prunus padus is part of the Royal Horticultural Society “Plants for Pollinators” initiative to showcase plants which support pollinator populations by providing ample amounts of nectar and/ or pollen. A great choice for encouraging pollinating insect wildlife into your garden!
Common problems with Bird Cherry
How to propagate Bird Cherry
Cuttings
Seed
Grafting
Budding
Special features of Bird Cherry
Autumn colour
Attractive leaves
Attractive flowers
Hedge plant
Other uses of Bird Cherry
Banks, hedging, specimen Suitable for coastal conditions.
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