Overview & Description

The Western Chokecherry (Prunus virginiana melanocarpa) is a hardy, suckering native shrub or small tree widely distributed across North America. In late spring, it produces elongated, cylindrical clusters of fragrant white flowers that are highly attractive to pollinators. These develop into small, dark red to almost black cherries that are extremely astringent when fresh but become palatable when cooked, making them excellent for jellies, syrups, and wines. Its simple, oval, finely serrated leaves are dark green above and paler below, turning yellow to orange-red in autumn. The fruit is a crucial food source for many birds and mammals.

Growth & Size

This variety exhibits an upright, suckering, and thicket-forming growth habit. It can be grown as a large shrub or small tree, typically reaching a mature size of about 10 to 25 feet in height with a spread of 15 to 20 feet. It grows at a medium rate and can live for approximately 40 years.

Additional Notes

It blooms in late spring, with fruit ripening in late summer. Exceptionally cold and drought-tolerant to Zone 2, it thrives in full sun and adapts to various well-drained soils. Often used for naturalizing, windbreaks, shelterbelts, erosion control, and wildlife habitat.