Prunus emarginata - Bitter Cherry
- Jonna Semke
- Jul 31
- 2 min read
Updated: Oct 6
Prunus emarginata
Bitter Cherry
Description
Prunus emarginata, or Bitter Cherry is a deciduous small tree or large shrub native to western North America, including the Pacific Northwest. It features glossy, finely toothed leaves and clusters of fragrant white flowers in spring that are highly attractive to pollinators. In summer, it produces small, bright red cherries that are sour to taste but provide valuable food for birds and wildlife. Its reddish-brown bark and picturesque branching add interest throughout the year.
Ideal Uses
Wildlife gardens and habitat restoration
Naturalistic or woodland gardens
Erosion control on slopes
Hedgerows or informal screens
Understory planting in open-canopy forests
Plant Profile
Type: Deciduous tree or large shrub
Height: 15–40 ft (sometimes taller in ideal conditions)
Spread: 10–20 ft
Sun: Full sun to part shade
Soil: Moist, well-drained to dry soils; tolerant of poor or rocky soils
Water Needs: Low to moderate once established
Growth Rate: Medium to fast
Bloom Time: April–May
Flower: White, 5-petaled in clusters
Fruit: Small red cherries; bitter to taste
USDA Zones: 5–9
Native Range: Western North America (WA, OR, CA, BC, etc.)
Maintenance Tips
Prune in late winter to maintain shape or remove suckers
Tolerates drought once established but benefits from occasional deep watering in dry summers
May spread via suckering, especially in open areas—use root barriers or regular pruning to manage if needed
Remove fallen fruit if mess is a concern in cultivated areas
Design Notes for Prunus emarginata - Bitter Cherry
Pairs well with native understory plants like Mahonia nervosa, Ribes sanguineum, or Arctostaphylos uva-ursi
Valuable for supporting native bees, butterflies, and birds—especially when fruiting
Use in layered habitat plantings or restoration sites where native structure and diversity are goals
Adds multi-season interest with spring flowers, summer fruit, and attractive bark in winter
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