Bird cherry

Bird Cherry (Prunus padus) is a species of cherry, native to northern Europe and northern Asia. It is a deciduous small tree or large shrub, 8–16 m tall, which grows in the wild but is also cultivated for its attractive spring blossom.

Description

The bird cherry has a slender trunk and a crown of light spreading branches. The bark is smooth and has a characteristic horizontal lenticel pattern. The leaves are alternate, 7–14 cm long, with a serrated margin. The flowers are produced in racemes 10–15 cm long in late spring (well after leaf emergence). The fruit is a small cherry 6–8 mm diameter, green at first, turning red then dark purple or black on maturity in late summer or early autumn.

Distribution and habitat

The bird cherry is found throughout northern Europe and Asia, from Ireland and Spain east to Japan, and from Scandinavia south to the mountains of Turkey and Iran. It is typically found in forests and woodlands, and in open areas such as meadows and fields. It prefers moist, well-drained soils and can tolerate a wide range of pH levels.

Uses

The wood of the bird cherry is hard and dense, and is used for making furniture and tools. The fruit is edible, although not as sweet as that of the related sweet cherry (Prunus avium). It is often used in jams and jellies, and can also be fermented to make wine.

Ecology

The bird cherry is a host plant for a number of insect species, including the bird cherry-oat aphid, which is a significant pest of cereals. The fruit is also eaten by a number of bird species, including the blackbird and song thrush.

Cultivation

Bird cherry is cultivated as an ornamental tree for its spring blossom, and is also used in hedges and windbreaks. It is hardy and can tolerate harsh winter conditions.

See also

• Cherry
• Prunus