Prunus cerasus

Prunus cerasus is a species of Prunus in the subgenus Cerasus (cherry), native to much of Europe and southwest Asia. It is also known as sour cherry or tart cherry.

Description

Prunus cerasus is a deciduous tree that grows to heights of 4–10 m. The leaves are 5–10 cm long, with a serrated margin. The flowers are produced in early spring, at the same time as the new leaves; they are white and 2–2.5 cm in diameter, with five petals.

Cultivation and uses

Prunus cerasus is widely cultivated in many countries for its fruit, which are used in cooking, in particular for making cherry pie, cherry jam and cherry juice. The fruit is also used to flavor alcoholic beverages such as cherry brandy and cherry beer.

Varieties

There are many varieties of Prunus cerasus, including 'Morello', 'Amarelle', 'Marasca' and 'Montmorency'. The 'Morello' cherry is dark-colored and has a strong sour flavor, while the 'Amarelle' cherry is light-colored and has a milder sour flavor. The 'Marasca' cherry is used to make Maraschino cherries, and the 'Montmorency' cherry is the most widely grown variety in the United States.

Health benefits

Prunus cerasus is rich in antioxidants and has been studied for its potential health benefits. Some studies suggest that it may help to reduce inflammation and pain, improve sleep quality, and support heart health.

See also

• Prunus avium (sweet cherry)
• Cherry production in Michigan