Prunus padus aka Bird Cherry

Prunus padus is a deciduous tree in the rose family. Its common names include bird cherry and European birdcherry. It grows wild across Europe and temperate parts of Asia. Its range reaches Korea and Japan. It is native to Britain and Ireland too. Gardens grow it for spring bloom, shade, and wildlife.

Garden trees reach about 20–40 feet [6–12.2 metres] tall. Oregon State records heights of 50 feet [15 metres]. The RHS also lists heights above 39 feet [12 metres]. Spread varies between sources. The RHS gives 13–26 feet [4–8 metres]. Missouri Botanical Garden lists a spread reaching 40 feet [12.2 metres]. Rising branches form a rounded crown. Rough bark ranges from grey to dark brown. The simple leaves grow in an alternate pattern along stems. They have an oval shape and fine, sharp teeth. Their upper sides are dull green, with greyish undersides. Leaves turn yellow or bronze before they fall.

White flowers open after the leaves emerge in spring. Missouri Botanical Garden gives the bloom season as April to May. The flowers have a scent and form loose racemes. These clusters hang down or stand partly upright. Small, round cherries follow the flowers and ripen in midsummer. The ripe skin is glossy black. Birds eat the fruit, but people find it very bitter. The sources do not establish edible uses or safety. The tree also draws butterflies to the garden.

Grow this tree in full sun or part shade. The RHS recommends full sun and soil with moderate fertility. It accepts sand, loam, clay, and chalk. It also grows across acid, neutral, and alkaline soils. Moist soil with good drainage suits it. Its water needs are moderate, and routine care is low. Missouri Botanical Garden lists USDA zones 3–6. The RHS rates it H6 for UK conditions. It can serve as a street tree or shade tree. Wildlife gardens and informal gardens also suit it.

Pest and disease reports differ between sources. Missouri Botanical Garden reports no serious routine problems. Oregon State warns of aphids and disfiguring black knot. Other possible pests include scale, borers, caterpillars, and bullfinches. Leaf spot, canker, silver leaf, and blossom wilt can occur. The RHS flags it as a high-risk host for Xylella fastidiosa. Where silver leaf is a concern, the RHS advises midsummer pruning. Growers can raise plants from seed, budding, grafting, or softwood cuttings.