Nanking Cherry (Prunus tomentosa)

The Nanking Cherry (Prunus tomentosa) is a medium, wide-spreading shrub characterized by its glossy green foliage and beautiful spring blossoms. Native to northern China and Japan, this hardy shrub can reach heights and widths of 6 to 8 feet, making it an excellent choice for ornamental landscapes and edible gardens alike. It is exceptionally cold-hardy.

The Nanking Cherry produces semi-sweet cherries that are typically larger when planted in full sun. While it blooms better in full sun to partial shade, extreme hot and dry conditions can lead to rapid desiccation of the fruit, especially in drought years. Shade-grown bushes may produce fewer flowers and fruit, but the fruit tends to remain succulent and hang on longer.

For optimal fruit production, these seedlings should be planted near other Nanking Cherries to ensure successful pollination. Their resilience to winds and drought makes them a practical choice for a variety of growing conditions, and they are particularly well-suited for use in hedges.

Plant Characteristics:

• Scientific Name: Prunus tomentosa
• Size & Shape: Grows 6-8 feet tall and wide with a wide-spreading habit; ideal for hedges and ornamental landscaping.
• Fruit Type: Semi-sweet cherries that develop in clusters, offering a delicious snack.
• Flowering: Produces fragrant white to pink flowers in early spring, attracting pollinators.
• Ecological Benefits: Provides habitat and food for wildlife; supports pollinator populations with its blossoms.
• Wildlife Benefits: Berries serve as a food source for birds and small mammals.

Growing Conditions:

• Sun Requirement: Prefers full sun to partial shade; best fruit production occurs in sunny locations.
• Water Requirement: Moderate water needs; drought-tolerant once established but sensitive to extreme heat without adequate moisture.
• Hardiness Zone: Hardy in USDA Zones 3-8.
• Soil Preference: Adapts to various soil types, particularly well-drained soils.

Incorporating Nanking Cherry into your landscape provides not only a visually appealing shrub but also a source of delicious cherries and valuable habitat for local wildlife. This versatile plant is a fantastic addition to any garden, offering both aesthetic and ecological benefits while ensuring a bountiful harvest.