🌿 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
Pin Cherry is a valuable early successional species, useful for soil stabilization and wildlife habitat. Its fruits are edible but tart, best used in jams, jellies, and syrups. It attracts pollinators and birds, contributing to garden biodiversity. The fast growth makes it useful as a nurse crop for slower-growing trees.
Permapeople description
Prunus pensylvanica, also known as pin cherry, fire cherry, or bird cherry, is a species of bird cherry native to North America.
Botanical description
Prunus pensylvanica, commonly known as Pin Cherry, is a deciduous tree or large shrub reaching up to 40 feet tall. It has smooth, reddish-brown bark with prominent lenticels. The leaves are lanceolate to oblong-lanceolate, 2-5 inches long, with finely serrated margins. The flowers are small, white, and borne in corymbs in the spring. The fruit is a small, bright red drupe, approximately 1/4 inch in diameter, containing a single seed. It is native to North America and is often found in disturbed areas, such as after fires or logging.
Companion planting
Pin Cherry is a beneficial companion for other early successional species. Its rapid growth can provide shade and protection for slower-growing trees. It attracts pollinators, which benefit other fruiting plants. Avoid planting near plants susceptible to cherry leaf spot or other Prunus diseases.
Propagation methods
Propagation is primarily by seed, which requires stratification to break dormancy. Cuttings can be taken, though rooting can be challenging. Root suckers can also be transplanted. Seedlings grow rapidly and are adaptable to various soil types.
History and traditions
Native Americans used Pin Cherry medicinally for its astringent properties, employing the bark and roots to treat various ailments. The fruits were also consumed, though often mixed with other foods due to their tartness. The wood has limited commercial value but was sometimes used for small woodworking projects. It is often considered a pioneering species after forest fires, quickly colonizing disturbed areas.
Usage calendar
Flowering occurs in spring (May-June). Fruits ripen in mid to late summer (July-August). Seeds are best collected in fall for stratification and sowing. Pruning, if necessary, is best done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Planting bare root or container-grown trees can be done in spring or fall.