Ground Cherry, European Dwarf Cherry, Steppe Cherry, Dwarf Cherry
Prunus cerasus frutescens
🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
The fruit is edible, used in jams, preserves, and liqueurs. It's a valuable small tree for attracting pollinators and wildlife to the permaculture garden. It acts as a windbreak and its low stature allows it to be incorporated into a food forest design without shading out smaller plants. Selected cultivars are available for improved fruit size and flavor. It can be used in hedgerows.
Permapeople description
Prunus cerasus frutescens, also known as European dwarf cherry, dwarf cherry, Mongolian cherry or steppe cherry, is a species of cherry native to Europe and Asia.
Botanical description
Prunus cerasus frutescens, commonly known as the European dwarf cherry or steppe cherry, is a deciduous shrub or small tree typically reaching heights of 3 to 6 feet. It possesses a dense, twiggy habit. The leaves are ovate to elliptic, serrated, and about 1 to 3 inches long. It produces clusters of white flowers in spring, followed by small, bright red cherries that are about 0.5 inch in diameter. The fruit is tart but edible. It is native to Central and Eastern Europe and parts of Asia. The bark is typically smooth and gray-brown.
Companion planting
It benefits from planting near other fruit trees to promote pollination. Avoid planting near black walnut (Juglans nigra) as it is allelopathic. Good companions include comfrey, daffodils, and herbs like thyme and rosemary to deter pests.
Propagation methods
Propagation methods include seed sowing, softwood cuttings in summer, hardwood cuttings in winter, and division of suckers. Grafting onto compatible Prunus rootstocks is also possible for specific cultivars.
History and traditions
Historically, the ground cherry has been used for its fruit in various culinary traditions throughout Eastern Europe and Russia. It was often used to make traditional jams, preserves, and alcoholic beverages. In some cultures, the fruit was believed to have medicinal properties. Historically, the wood was used for small tools.
Usage calendar
Flowering occurs in April-May. Fruit ripens in June-July. Pruning is best done in late winter or early spring. Planting is best done in the fall or early spring.