Prunus fruticosa aka European Dwarf Cherry

Prunus fruticosa is a small cherry shrub in the rose family. Its common names include steppe cherry and European ground cherry. Kew places its native range from central and southeastern Europe to the Caucasus. Oregon State gives a broader range reaching Siberia. It grows in temperate regions and loses its leaves in winter. It is not native to Britain or Ireland.

Garden plants reach about 3–5 feet (1–1.5 metres) tall and wide. Some descriptions give an upper size near 6.5 feet (2 metres). The shrub forms a dense crown with short branches. Thin twigs spread outward and become hairless as they mature. Suckers help the plant spread beyond its base. Growers also graft it onto a tall rootstock. This gives it a small tree form with a rounded crown. The leaves grow alternately along the stems. Each leaf is simple, tough, and glossy dark green. Their shape ranges from oval to broader near the tip. The edges have rounded teeth. Autumn brings red, orange, and yellow leaf colour.

Small white flowers open in late spring. They measure about half an inch across and form small clusters. Each cluster holds two to four flowers. Dark red fruit may follow, though fruiting is not assured. The round cherries measure less than half an inch across. Each contains a stone pointed at both ends. The flesh tastes very sour. People use the fruit in pies, jams, and jellies. The supplied sources do not establish the safety of other parts.

Plant it in full sun for the preferred growing conditions. It also accepts partial shade. Give it moderately fertile soil that stays moist but drains well. It accepts clay, loam, sand, and chalk. Acid, neutral, and alkaline soils all suit it. The RHS rates its cold hardiness as H7. Oregon State reports hardiness down to USDA zone 2. Plants reach mature size in roughly five to ten years.

This shrub suits borders, courtyards, cottage gardens, and wildlife gardens. Its flowers and autumn leaves provide seasonal interest. Prune in summer to lower the risk of silver leaf. Aphids and caterpillars may attack it. Possible diseases include peach leaf curl, bacterial canker, and blossom wilt. Silver leaf and honey fungus may also occur. The RHS identifies it as a high-risk host for Xylella fastidiosa.