Description
Native to Europe and temperate Asia, <em>Prunus padus</em> naturally grows along woodland edges and in moist, cool areas. It belongs to the Rosaceae family, like cherries, apples and almonds. This native species is ecologically valuable, nectar-rich and attractive to wildlife.
The Bird Cherry is a medium-sized tree with a graceful, slightly weeping habit and flexible branches. Its deciduous foliage turns from mid- to dark green to golden yellow in autumn. In April-May, it produces long, drooping clusters of white flowers, reminiscent of lily-of-the-valley, with a pleasant almond scent. Small black drupes follow, inedible to humans but highly appreciated by birds.
Mature height: 6 to 10 m
Width: 4 to 6 m
Habit: Upright then spreading, naturally elegant
Foliage: Deciduous, oval, bright green, golden yellow in autumn
Flowering: April to May
Fruits: Small black cherries (inedible for humans)
Hardiness: Excellent (down to -30 °C)
Growth: Fast
Flowers: White, in 10–15 cm hanging racemes, almond-scented
Fragrance: Sweet, floral, reminiscent of bitter almond
Fruits: Small, round, black (July-August), favoured by birds
Nectar-rich: attracts bees, butterflies and hoverflies
Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
Soil: Rich, moist, humus-rich, slightly acidic to neutral
Tolerates calcareous soil but prefers deep, well-drained land
Thrives in wet areas and forest edges
Best planted in autumn or spring
Add compost or soil conditioner to enrich the planting hole
Allow enough space (minimum 4–5 m)
Mulch in summer to retain soil moisture
Regular in the first year
Appreciates watering during long dry spells
Performs very well in damp soils
Light pruning after flowering to shape, if needed
Tolerates gentle pruning, but not required
Can be trained as a bonsai thanks to its flexible growth and decorative blooms
By seed (slow germination)
By root suckers (the species naturally produces them)
Also possible by cuttings or layering
As a specimen to highlight its flowers and foliage
In informal or country hedges
Near water features or woodland edges
In natural or wildlife gardens: ideal for biodiversity
As a bonsai for lovers of delicate flowering trees
Very hardy, rarely affected by disease
May occasionally suffer from:
Aphids on young shoots
Monilia (rare, in very wet conditions)
No routine treatment needed in well-drained soils
Prefers moist soil and bright conditions
Water regularly for the first two years
Remove lower branches to encourage tree form
Mulch with organic matter to maintain soil moisture
Prunus padus, or Bird Cherry, is a charming, hardy little tree that combines visual appeal, fragrance, spring flowers and ecological value. Fast-growing and easy to care for, it fits beautifully into natural or country gardens, and even in containers for miniature cultivation. A must for lovers of poetic blooms and native species supporting wildlife.
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