European Bird Cherry: A Non-Native Tree with Mixed Appeal
If you’ve been browsing through tree options for your landscape and stumbled upon European bird cherry (Prunus padus), you might be wondering whether this non-native species deserves a spot in your garden. This perennial tree offers some appealing features, but there are important considerations every gardener should know before planting.
What is European Bird Cherry?
European bird cherry is a non-native shrub or small tree that has established itself across various regions of North America. Originally from Europe and northern Asia, this member of the Prunus family has found its way into the wild in many states, reproducing spontaneously without human intervention.
Where You’ll Find It Growing
This adaptable species has spread across a surprising range of locations, from Alaska down through Canada and into numerous U.S. states including Delaware, Illinois, Montana, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Washington. Its ability to naturalize in such diverse climates speaks to its hardiness and adaptability.
The Look and Feel of European Bird Cherry
European bird cherry typically grows as a multi-stemmed shrub, though it can reach impressive heights of up to 30 feet at maturity, with 20 feet being more common after 20 years of growth. Here’s what makes it visually interesting:
- Conspicuous white flowers that bloom in spring
- Medium-textured green foliage
- Black fruits that are quite noticeable when they appear in summer
- Moderate growth rate with an upright, erect form
- Single-stem growth pattern when mature
Growing Conditions and Care
If you’re considering planting European bird cherry, it does have some specific preferences that you’ll want to accommodate:
Soil Requirements
- Prefers coarse to medium-textured soils (avoid heavy clay)
- pH range of 5.0 to 7.0
- Medium fertility requirements
- Good drainage essential – this tree has no tolerance for waterlogged conditions
Environmental Needs
- Full sun locations (shade intolerant)
- Medium moisture requirements
- Annual precipitation needs of 24-45 inches
- Hardy to approximately -33°F (likely USDA zones 3-7)
- Requires at least 110 frost-free days
Planting and Propagation
European bird cherry can be propagated through several methods including seeds, cuttings, bare root, or container plants. If starting from seed, you’ll need to provide cold stratification, and be patient – the seedling spread rate is slow, though the plants show high vigor once established.
Wildlife and Ecological Considerations
While European bird cherry does provide some wildlife benefits – particularly serving as a food source for terrestrial birds who include its fruits as 5-10% of their diet – it’s worth noting that native alternatives would likely provide greater ecological value.
The tree prefers upland conditions across most regions, rarely occurring in wetland areas except in Alaska where it shows more tolerance for moist conditions.
Should You Plant European Bird Cherry?
This is where things get a bit complicated. European bird cherry isn’t listed as invasive or noxious, but it is a non-native species that has shown the ability to establish and spread on its own. While it offers some ornamental value with its spring flowers and summer fruits, native alternatives would better support local ecosystems.
Consider These Native Alternatives Instead:
- American plum (Prunus americana)
- Wild black cherry (Prunus serotina)
- Chokecherry (Prunus virginiana)
- Pin cherry (Prunus pensylvanica)
These native cherries and plums offer similar aesthetic appeal while providing superior wildlife habitat and supporting native pollinators more effectively.
Final Thoughts
While European bird cherry can be successfully grown with the right conditions – full sun, well-draining soil, and adequate moisture – its non-native status and tendency to naturalize make it a less-than-ideal choice for environmentally conscious gardeners. If you’re drawn to the spring flowers and bird-attracting fruits of the Prunus family, consider exploring native alternatives that will give you similar beauty while supporting your local ecosystem.
Remember, every plant choice in our gardens is an opportunity to support biodiversity and create habitat for native wildlife. While European bird cherry isn’t necessarily harmful, choosing native species is almost always the better path forward for both your garden and the broader environment.
