Bird Cherry (prunus padus)

• Native deciduous tree (up to 15–20m tall) with abundant fragrant white blossom in long racemes during spring – one of the earliest and most scented native cherries.
• Excellent early nectar and pollen source for bees, hoverflies and other pollinators; supports numerous moth and butterfly caterpillars.
• Produces small black bitter cherries in mid summer, eagerly eaten by birds (especially thrushes and blackbirds).
• Attractive pyramidal to spreading form with glossy green leaves turning yellow-red in autumn.
• Very hardy, tolerant of wet soils, cold, exposed sites, and poor conditions; ideal for wildlife gardens, woodland edges, or natural planting schemes.

Planting Guide

• Best time: Bare-root November–March (dormant season); container-grown autumn or spring.
• Location: Full sun to partial shade; moist to wet, well-drained soil (tolerates clay, boggy areas, or poor sites but dislikes very dry/chalky); sheltered or exposed; ample space required – unsuitable for small gardens.
• Preparation: Dig hole twice root ball width; add organic matter to poor or dry soils.
• Planting: Set at original depth (check trunk soil mark); stake young trees; firm in, water well, mulch base (keep clear of trunk) to reduce weed competition and conserve soil moisture.
• Aftercare: Water regularly first few years in dry spells; minimal pruning; protect young trees from rabbits and deer.