What is a Prairie Cherry?

Prairie cherries, scientifically known as Prunus besseyi, are a unique and valuable group of cherry trees native to the North American prairies. These hardy and adaptable trees are known for their delicious fruit, ornamental value, and ecological significance.

Description and Characteristics

Prairie cherry trees are typically small to medium-sized, reaching heights of 15-25 feet with a similar spread. They have a rounded to spreading growth habit and produce a profusion of white blossoms in the spring, making them attractive additions to any landscape. The fruit of the prairie cherry is a small, round drupe that ripens to a deep red or black color. The fruit is edible and has a sweet-tart flavor, making it suitable for fresh eating, cooking, and preserving.

Varieties

Several varieties of prairie cherries have been developed, each with its unique characteristics. Some popular varieties include:

• ‘Black Beauty’: Known for its large, dark fruit and vigorous growth.
• ‘Compass’: A compact variety with good disease resistance and a sweet flavor.
• ‘Nanking’: A dwarf variety with small, sweet fruit that is ideal for containers or small gardens.
• ‘Red Splendor’: A variety with bright red fruit and a tart flavor, well-suited for cooking.

Cultivation and Care

Prairie cherry trees are relatively easy to grow and care for. They prefer well-drained soil, full sun, and regular watering. They are hardy to USDA zones 2-7 and can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions. Pruning is generally not necessary but can be done to shape the tree or remove dead or diseased branches.

Harvesting and Utilization

Prairie cherries are typically harvested in late summer or early fall when the fruit is fully ripe. The fruit can be eaten fresh, used in baking and cooking, or processed into jams, jellies, and other preserves. Prairie cherries are also a good source of vitamins and antioxidants, making them a healthy addition to any diet.

Culinary and Cultural Significance

Prairie cherries have a long history of culinary and cultural significance in the regions where they are grown. Native Americans used the fruit for food and medicinal purposes, and early settlers valued the trees for their hardiness and adaptability. Today, prairie cherries are still enjoyed for their delicious fruit and are often featured in local festivals and events.

Availability and Distribution

Prairie cherry trees are native to the North American prairies, ranging from Canada to the northern United States. They are commonly found in open woodlands, thickets, and along roadsides. Prairie cherries can be purchased from local nurseries and online retailers.

Conclusion

Prairie cherries are a valuable and versatile group of trees that offer a variety of benefits. Their hardiness, adaptability, and delicious fruit make them a great choice for growers in northern climates. Whether you are looking for a beautiful ornamental tree, a source of fresh fruit, or a way to connect with your local heritage, prairie cherries are a great option.

References and Further Reading

• Canadian Dwarf Sour Cherries – Prunus x kerrasis – Carrington REC (https://www.ag.ndsu.edu/carringtonrec/archive/northern-hardy-fruit-evaluation-project/fruit-index/dwarf-sour-cherry/canadian-dwarf-sour-cherries-2013-prunus-x-kerrasis)
• The cherry for the prairie – Yard & Garden Report (https://www.ag.ndsu.edu/yardandgardenreport/2014-07-21/the-cherry-for-the-prairie)
• Romance cherry seedlings – General Fruit Growing – Growing Fruit (https://growingfruit.org/t/romance-cherry-seedlings/20885)

FAQs

What are prairie cherries?

Prairie cherries are a group of cherry trees native to the North American prairies. They are known for their hardiness, adaptability, and delicious fruit.

What is the scientific name of the prairie cherry?

The scientific name of the prairie cherry is Prunus besseyi.

What do prairie cherry trees look like?

Prairie cherry trees are typically small to medium-sized, with a rounded to spreading growth habit. They produce white blossoms in the spring and small, round, red or black fruit in the summer.

What are some popular varieties of prairie cherries?

Some popular varieties of prairie cherries include ‘Black Beauty’, ‘Compass’, ‘Nanking’, and ‘Red Splendor’.

How do you grow prairie cherry trees?

Prairie cherry trees prefer well-drained soil, full sun, and regular watering. They are hardy to USDA zones 2-7 and can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions.

When do you harvest prairie cherries?

Prairie cherries are typically harvested in late summer or early fall when the fruit is fully ripe.

How can you use prairie cherries?

Prairie cherries can be eaten fresh, used in baking and cooking, or processed into jams, jellies, and other preserves.

What are the benefits of prairie cherries?

Prairie cherries are a good source of vitamins and antioxidants, making them a healthy addition to any diet. They are also relatively easy to grow and care for, making them a good choice for growers in northern climates.

Where can you find prairie cherries?

Prairie cherries are native to the North American prairies, ranging from Canada to the northern United States. They can be purchased from local nurseries and online retailers.