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‘Schubert’ chokecherry

Prunus virginiana 'Schubert'

PREW-nus ver-jin-ee-AY-nah

‘Schubert’ chokecherry, with its vivid foliage and pyramidal form, makes a fine focal point. Ephemeral, light pink flowers are followed by abundant, dark red–purple fruit that birds love. (Don’t plant it near patios or walks, as they’ll quickly be covered by bird droppings.) Ask if the tree you buy is grafted onto nonsuckering rootstock; otherwise, suckers could pose problems down the road. —Ron Smith, “Regional Picks: Upper Plains,” Fine Gardening #120

Noteworthy CharacteristicsBurgundy foliage and reddish purple fruit that attracts birds. The species is a U.S. native.

CareProvide full sun to light shade and alkaline soil. Plant chokecherry where bird activity will not cause a problem.

PropagationRemove rooted suckers, if any.

ProblemsTent caterpillars are the primary problem.

  • Genus : Prunus
  • Plant Height : 15 to 30 feet
  • Plant Width : 15 to 30 feet
  • Zones : 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
  • Light : Full Sun to Partial Shade
  • Maintenance : Low
  • Moisture : Medium Moisture
  • Flower Color : Pink
  • Foliage Color : Purple/Burgundy
  • Characteristics : Showy Foliage, Showy Fruit
  • Plant Type : Shrubs
  • Bloom Time : Spring
  • Plant Seasonal Interest : Spring Interest

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