Nanking Cherry

Scientific Name: Prunus tomentosa

Also Known As

Chinese Bush Cherry
Downy Cherry
Hedge Cherry
Manchu Cherry
Mongolian Cherry
Mountain Cherry

Plant type

shrub, fruit / vegetable

size

H: 15'
W: 10'

planting zones

2a-8b

More Options

Nanking Cherry plant details

Nanking Cherry is a broadleaf deciduous fruit / vegetable or shrub with green foliage. In spring white flowers emerge followed by red fruit. Attracts bees making it an excellent addition to pollinator gardens. Grows well with sun - mostly sun and regular water. Does well in average and well-drained soil.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Nanking Cherry

Plant type: fruit / vegetable or shrub
Plant family: rosaceae
Foliage: deciduous green
Mature size: 10 FT wide, 15 FT tall
Flowers: white blooms in spring
Uses: border plant, edible, hedge

GROWING CONDITIONS for Nanking Cherry

USDA Zones: 2a - 8b
Sun exposure: sun - mostly sun
Watering frequency: regular

Soil needs: average and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

White to light pink flowers cover the bare stems before the leaves in early spring and are followed in June/July by bright-red, edible, sweet-tart cherry fruits which can be eaten fresh or made into pies and preserves; sometimes called the downy cherry in reference to its downy leaves, stems and fruits; native to Asia and the Himalaya, this very-tough, 6-8' tall by 15' wide shrub is also graced with soft-yellow fall color; a great addition to the edible or wildlife garden. S/M

By: Forestfarm

Plant these 15 feet apart for full size mature plants or 4 feet apart for a hedge. Every gardener should have a few of these. After a beautiful flower display the mature plants can produce up to 2 gallons of fruit each. In Maine we have an affection for super hardy fruits and this a favorite. Used for fresh eating flavor bombs, jelly, wine, drying, syrup and more. Order 2 or more for improved pollination. Do not plant near Black Walnut, it cannot tolerate the natural jugone created.