🌿 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
Bird cherry provides edible fruit that can be used in jams and jellies, though it is astringent when raw. The flowers are fragrant and attract pollinators, benefiting the garden ecosystem. It can be used as a hedging plant, providing wildlife habitat and shelter. It's a good source of biomass for mulching or composting. Some cultivars, such as 'Colorata', offer ornamental value with purple foliage and pink flowers.
Permapeople description
Prunus padus is a deciduous tree or large shrub with white flowers in spring and small black fruit in summer. It is native to Europe and Asia.
Botanical description
Prunus padus, commonly known as bird cherry, is a deciduous tree or large shrub belonging to the rose family (Rosaceae). It typically grows to a height of 40-50 feet. The bark is smooth and grayish-brown. The leaves are alternate, simple, elliptic to ovate, with finely serrated margins. The flowers are small, white, and fragrant, borne in drooping racemes in spring. The fruit is a small, black drupe, ripening in late summer. It thrives in moist, well-drained soils and prefers full sun to partial shade. It's native to Europe and Asia.
Companion planting
Bird cherry can be a good companion plant for nitrogen-fixing shrubs as it benefits from the enriched soil. Avoid planting near plants susceptible to fungal diseases, as bird cherry can be a host for certain fungal pathogens.
Propagation methods
Propagation can be achieved through seed sowing (requires stratification), softwood cuttings in summer, hardwood cuttings in winter, layering, and root suckers.
History and traditions
Historically, bird cherry has been used in traditional medicine for its astringent and anti-inflammatory properties. The bark and fruit have been used to treat coughs, colds, and digestive issues. In some cultures, the wood was used for making small tools and utensils. The tree also has folklore associations with warding off evil spirits.
Usage calendar
Flowering occurs in April-May. Fruit ripens in August-September. Seed collection is best in late summer/early fall. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring.