Prunus pensylvanica

Pin cherry, Fire cherry

Stands of this suckering tree explode with small white blossoms in early spring, carpeting whole hillsides in white. This early-successional and very hardy species is most valuable for stemming nutrient and water loss from newly cleared sites. Its fruits are consumed by dozens of birds.

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Height: 15-35 ft
Spread: 8-18 ft
Hardiness Zone: 3-9


Bloom Color: White

Characteristics & Attributes

Cultivation Status
• Species
Exposure
• Sun
• Part Shade
Soil Moisture
• Dry
• Average
Ecoregion
• (58) Northeastern Highlands
• (83) Eastern Great Lakes Lowlands
• (59) Northeastern Coastal Zone
• (84) Atlantic Coastal Pine Barrens
• (82) Acadian Plains and Hills
Ornamental Interest
• Summer Fruit
• Spring Bloom
Attracts Wildlife
• Host Plant
• Pollinator Powerhouse Plant
• Other Pollinators/Wildlife
• Attracts Songbirds
• Attracts Bees
Tolerance
• Compaction Tolerant
• Urban Environment
• Drought Tolerant
Additional Attributes
• Edible
• Low Maintenance
• Erosion Control/Soil Stabilization
Landscape Use
• Massing
• Rain Garden
• Naturalize
Attractive Fall Foliage and/or Ornamental Fruit
• Red Fruit
Growth Habit
• Spreading/Suckering


North American Distribution


Uli Lorimer (c) Uli Lorimer
Uli Lorimer (c) Uli Lorimer