Water
Water regularly during dry spells, especially when young. Bird cherry prefers consistently moist soil but can tolerate short periods of drought once established.
Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
Also known as Ávttja · Bird Berry · European Bird Cherry
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Bird cherry (Prunus padus) is a deciduous tree native to Europe and Asia, known for its fragrant white flowers and dark, astringent fruits that attract birds.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
50% intensity
Thrives in full sun but tolerates some shade.
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers consistently moist soil, water during dry periods.
Adaptable to most well-drained soils
50% intensity
Hardy
25% intensity
Tolerates a wide range of temperatures, including cold winters.
Low
25% intensity
Light feeding in spring is usually sufficient.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
The seeds and leaves contain cyanogenic glycosides which can be toxic if ingested in large quantities.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly during dry spells, especially when young. Bird cherry prefers consistently moist soil but can tolerate short periods of drought once established.
Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
Prune to shape the tree and remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches. Light pruning can be done after flowering. Avoid heavy pruning as it can reduce flowering and fruit production.
Aim for an open structure to allow good air circulation.
Bird cherry can be propagated by seed, which requires a period of cold stratification. Semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer can also be rooted. Grafting is another method, often used for specific cultivars.
Repotting is generally only necessary for young trees grown in containers. Young plants can be repotted every 1-2 years in spring. Ensure the new pot provides adequate space for root growth and good drainage.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Bird Cherry (Prunus padus)
Where Bird Cherry (Prunus padus) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Prunus |
| Species | Prunus padus |
Similar in genus Prunus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
