Prunus mahaleb aka Mahaleb Cherry

Prunus mahaleb is a deciduous tree in the rose family. Its common names include mahaleb cherry and St. Lucie cherry. It comes from central Europe and Asia Minor. It is not native to Britain or Ireland. Gardeners grow it for spring flowers, autumn leaves, and shade. Its fruit also draws birds, making it useful in wildlife gardens.

Garden heights range from about 30–39 feet [9–12 metres]. The RHS describes a tree reaching 33 feet [10 metres]. Its size guide gives an upper height of 39 feet [12 metres]. The crown can spread 13–26 feet [4–8 metres] across. Chicago describes an upright form, while the RHS notes spreading branches. The tree takes about 10–20 years to reach full size. Glossy green leaves turn yellow in autumn, then fall.

Small groups of white flowers open during spring. Each flower has a bowl shape, and the blooms smell strong. The RHS places flowering in mid- to late spring. Chicago lists March to April, but its text says April and May. Small, shiny cherries follow the flowers and ripen during summer. They turn from red to black and taste very bitter. The kernels inside the stones provide the spice called mahaleb. This culinary use does not establish that other parts are edible.

Grow this tree in full sun with moderate moisture. It needs soil that drains well but stays moist. The RHS recommends soil with a moderate level of fertility. It accepts chalk, clay, loam, and sand. Acid, neutral, and alkaline soils all suit it. Choose a sheltered site facing south or west. The RHS rates its hardiness H6; Chicago lists USDA zones 5–8. Its flowers and autumn colour suit informal and cottage gardens. Its crown can also serve as a shade tree.

Aphids and caterpillars may attack this cherry. Possible diseases include peach leaf curl, silver leaf, and bacterial canker. Blossom wilt and honey fungus can also affect it. The RHS identifies it as a high-risk host for Xylella fastidiosa. If pruning is needed, summer cuts help reduce silver leaf risk. Sow seed outdoors in containers during autumn to raise new plants. Another method uses softwood cuttings in early summer, with heat from below.