Native Plant Trust

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