Species bird cherry

bird cherry

Prunus avium 'Stella'

Bird cherry (Prunus avium 'Stella') is an ornamental tree with small, white flowers and large, edible fruit. The cherry-like fruit is popular amongst birds that help spread the treeā€™s seedsā€”hence the name. This small tree grows up to 30 feet in height and has a dense, rounded habit. It produces small oval-shaped leaves and makes a great addition to any landscape with its elegant blossoms. An easy-to-care-for plant, Stella is an exceptionally hardy variety that tolerates most soil types and can survive cold temperatures, making it perfect for use in a variety of climates.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Grafting Propagation,Layering Propagation,Cutting,Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

5 - 8

Flowers:

White Flowers In Spring

Sun:

Full sun

Fruits:

red,purple Fruits Ready In

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

High

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Water bird cherry (Prunus avium 'Stella') every 1-2 weeks, allowing the top 2-3 inches of soil to dry out between waterings. During particularly hot or dry periods the soil may dry more quickly so water more frequently when needed. During winter months when the plant is dormant, reduce watering significantly. Avoid overwatering which can cause root rot and fungal diseases.

sunlight

Bird cherry (Prunus avium 'Stella') plants thrive in full sun. This plant does best with at least 5 hours of direct sunlight each day. If it is planted in a shady spot, the plant may not bloom as well and may be more prone to disease. During the hottest days of the year, protect from harsh afternoon sunlight by providing light shade. Providing too much shade will also reduce flowering.

pruning

The bird cherry tree (Prunus avium 'Stella') should be pruned in late winter or early spring before the tree begins to leaf out. Pruning should be done carefully to maintain the desired shape of the tree and to thin out overly dense areas. Dead, diseased, broken, and crossing branches should be removed to encourage healthy growth. In addition, main branches should be pruned back so that the treeā€™s height and diameter are under control. It is possible to prune lightly each year, or to prune more heavily every few years.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Prunus avium 'Stella' typically starts flowering in April.

Harvest Fruit

The best time to start harvesting the fruits from Prunus avium 'Stella' is usually in July and August.

Hardiness Map