About
Prunus fruticosa, the European dwarf cherry, is a small, suckering shrub 1�2 m high and wide with slender branches and intense-green, shiny, scalloped-edged foliage turning brilliant red, orange and yellow in autumn. Small, white flowers are produced in late spring, sometimes followed by very acidic, dark-red fruit. Often grown as a top-worked standard. A rewarding and ornamental shrub for a sunny garden.
About the genus
Prunus are deciduous or evergreen trees or shrubs producing showy flowers in spring, often with good autumn foliage colour. Some species have edible fruit in autumn and a few have ornamental bark. Among the most popular of all flowering trees and shrubs.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy, Suckering
FoliageDeciduous
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
Native toEurasia
Care notes
CultivationGrow in any moist but well-drained, moderately fertile soil preferably in full sun
PruningPruning group 1, ideally in summer to reduce the risk of silver leaf infection
PropagationPropagate by seed sown in containers outdoors in autumn; or by softwood cuttings, with bottom heat, in early summer
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids and caterpillars
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to peach leaf curl, silver leaf, bacterial canker, blossom wilt and honey fungus. High Risk Host for Xylella fastidiosa