‘Schubert’ choke cherry, 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.) If the tree you buy isn’t grafted onto nonsuckering rootstock; otherwise, suckers could become problematic as the years go by. -Ron Smith, Regional Picks: Upper Plains, Fine Gardening issue #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 choke cherry 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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