Description
The Cherry tree bigarreau Napoléon is a vigorous fruit tree producing large, two-toned cherries: pale yellow blushed with red. Known for its firm, sweet flesh, it’s ideal for both orchards and gardens.
Geographical origin: Europe, mainly France (19th century)
Botanical family: Rosaceae
Notable features: This heirloom cultivar was named after Emperor Napoleon I. Historically valued for brandy, jam and desserts due to its firm texture.
Mature height: 3 to 4 metres
Mature spread: 2 to 3 metres
Habit: Upright, becomes rounded with age
Bark: Smooth reddish-brown, peeling with age
Foliage: Deciduous, glossy green, golden-yellow in autumn
Growth: Moderate to fast
Hardiness: Hardy down to -20°C
Flowering time: April
Flower description: White clusters, bee-friendly
Fruit: Large cherries, yellow with red blush, firm and sweet. Ripens in June–July. Needs a pollinator like Hedelfingen, burlat or Van.
Wildlife interest: Nectar-rich, attracts bees
Ideal light: Full sun, sheltered from cold winds
Soil type: Deep, well-drained, neutral to slightly calcareous
Soil preparation tips: Loosen soil and add compost
Spacing between plants: 6 to 8 metres
Soil nature: Neutral, slightly calcareous, well-drained
Water needs when planting: Regular during first 2 years
Water needs when mature: Moderate; drought-tolerant once established
When and how to prune: Formative pruning when young, then lightly prune after harvest to maintain structure. Avoid heavy cuts.
Possible methods: Grafting onto wild cherry or prunus colt
Best placement: Orchard, large garden, fruit hedge
Recommended companions: Apple trees, pear trees, plum trees; marigold, borage
Historic or cultural usage: Consumed fresh, in preserves or brandy. Wood prized in cabinetmaking.
Vulnerabilities: Brown rot, bacterial canker, aphids
Natural prevention: Horsetail decoction, good air circulation, mulch
Tips for best development: Sunny location, light pruning, companion planting, organic mulch
The ‘Bigarreau Napoléon’ stands out for its crisp, sweet, two-tone fruits, early harvest and reliable productivity. Less prone to cracking than many cherries.
→ This Cherry tree Napoleon is grafted low-stem onto a Prunus Colt rootstock
Expédition & livraison
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Each order is processed individually.
Plants are packed, staked and labeled.
Packaging is carefully implemented to avoid any problems.
Packages are ready to be shipped.Shipping of our plants throughout Europe (except overseas and islands).
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