Overview & Description

The Valentine Cherry (Prunus ‘Valentine’) is a compact, prairie-hardy variety from the University of Saskatchewan’s Romance® series, perfect for colder climates. In spring, clusters of fragrant white flowers adorn the tree, followed by medium-sized, bright red cherries with light red flesh ripening in early to mid-August. Glossy, dark green leaves transform into vibrant yellow in autumn, adding seasonal beauty. This self-pollinating tree produces abundant harvests of tart cherries ideal for pies, preserves, and processing.

Growth & Size

This variety exhibits a compact, upright, and bushy growth habit. It forms a small, manageable tree or large shrub, typically reaching a mature size of about 2 to 2.5 meters (6.5 to 8 feet) in both height and spread.

Additional Notes

It blooms profusely in mid-spring, with fruit ripening in early to mid-August. Exceptionally cold-hardy to Zone 3, disease-resistant, and low-maintenance, it delivers reliable, high yields without a second tree. Its exceptional tart flavor makes it a favorite for culinary use. An outstanding choice for home gardens, edible landscapes, or as a productive ornamental accent combining beauty, resilience, and bountiful harvests.