Nanking Cherry, Manchu Cherry, Korean Cherry, Mountain Cherry, Downy Cherry
Prunus tomentosa
🌿 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
Nanking cherry is used for edible fruits, eaten fresh, made into jams, jellies, pies, and juice. It's also a good wildlife plant, providing food and shelter for birds. The plant can be used as a hedge or screen, and its early spring blossoms are ornamental. Some cultivars, like 'Orient' and 'Dwarf King,' are known for their fruit production. The fruit is high in Vitamin C and antioxidants.
Permapeople description
Prunus tomentosa, also known as the Nanking cherry, Manchu cherry, downy cherry, Tokyo cherry, or Korean cherry, is a species of Prunus native to central and eastern Asia. It is a deciduous shrub growing to 0.3–2.5 m tall, with a stem up to 20 cm diameter. The bark is grey-brown. The leaves are 2–6 cm long and 1–3 cm broad, with a serrated margin. The flowers are white or pink, 5–10 mm diameter, produced in abundance in early spring. The fruit is a bright red drupe 5–12 mm diameter, ripening in early summer.
Botanical description
Prunus tomentosa is a deciduous shrub, typically growing to a height of 6-10 feet (1.8-3 meters). The leaves are alternate, simple, oval-shaped, and finely toothed, with a pubescent underside, hence the name 'tomentosa'. The flowers are pink to white, about 0.8 inches (2 cm) in diameter, produced in abundance in early spring before the leaves emerge. The fruit is a bright red drupe, about 0.2-0.4 inches (0.5-1 cm) in diameter, ripening in mid-summer. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun. It is native to northern and western China, Korea, Mongolia, and possibly northern India.
Companion planting
Consider planting near other fruit-bearing shrubs or trees to increase pollination. Avoid planting near black walnut trees (Juglans nigra) as they release juglone, which can be toxic to Prunus species. Good companions might include blueberries, raspberries, or other plants that enjoy slightly acidic soil.
Propagation methods
Propagation can be achieved through seeds (requires stratification), softwood cuttings in spring or early summer, hardwood cuttings in late fall or winter, and by layering. Grafting onto other Prunus species is also possible.
History and traditions
Prunus tomentosa has been cultivated in China for centuries for its edible fruit and ornamental value. It was introduced to the West in the late 19th century. In traditional medicine, various parts of the Prunus genus have been used for coughs and respiratory ailments, although specific historical uses of P. tomentosa are not widely documented.
Usage calendar
Flowering: March-April. Fruit ripening/Harvest: June-July. Planting: Spring or Fall. Pruning: Late winter or early spring, after flowering, to remove dead or crossing branches.