Bird cherry
Also known as
European bird cherry, Hagberry, Mayday tree, Wild bird cherry, Racemose cherry
Keep this plant’s care guide close at hand.
Get the appAbout Bird cherry
Prunus padus, commonly known as bird cherry, is a hardy deciduous small tree or large shrub native to Europe and northern Asia. Typically 8–15 m tall with a rounded, often suckering habit, it bears glossy, serrate, ovate leaves that color yellow in autumn. In late spring (April–May), it produces long, pendulous racemes of almond-scented, nectar-rich white flowers that attract pollinators. These give way to small, glossy black drupes, unpalatably astringent to many people but eagerly eaten by birds and wildlife. The bark is dark, bitter, and aromatic due to cyanogenic compounds. Bird cherry thrives on moist, fertile, moderately acidic to neutral soils, tolerating clay and periodic flooding, and is common along rivers, lake margins, and cool woodland edges. It prefers cool-summer climates and is very cold-hardy. In cultivation it is valued for spring bloom, wildlife support, and bank stabilization; however, it can sucker and, in some regions where introduced (e.g., parts of Alaska), it behaves invasively. Prune after flowering to maintain form and reduce disease risk.
Taxonomy
Properties & Requirements
How to care for Bird cherry
Water
Water deeply and consistently during the first 2–3 growing seasons to establish a broad root system—about 2.5–4 cm of water weekly from rain or irrigation, adjusted for soil and weather. Thereafter it tolerates short dry spells but performs best with evenly moist soil. Use slow, infrequent soakings rather than frequent light sprinklings. Mulch to conserve moisture and buffer roots. In heavy clay, ensure drainage to prevent waterlogging, which predisposes the tree to root and collar diseases.
Light
Grows in full sun to light shade. For the heaviest bloom and fruiting, provide at least 6 hours of direct sun daily in cool climates. It tolerates partial shade typical of woodland edges, but flowering diminishes in deep shade. In hot-summer areas, morning sun with dappled afternoon shade reduces stress and leaf scorch. Avoid very dense shade and competition from aggressive roots that limit both light and moisture.
Nutrients
Bird cherry is not a heavy feeder. On established trees, annual mulching with leaf mold or compost usually supplies sufficient nutrients. If growth or bloom is poor, apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer low to moderate in nitrogen (e.g., 5-10-10) in early spring, guided by a soil test. Avoid excessive nitrogen, which encourages soft growth and disease. For young trees, incorporate compost at planting and top-dress in spring; water in well to move nutrients into the root zone.
Temperature
Extremely cold-hardy, thriving in USDA Zones 2–7. Dormant wood tolerates temperatures near −40°C (−40°F). It prefers cool summers; prolonged heat and drought reduce flowering and vigor, especially in warm continental or Mediterranean climates. Late spring frosts may damage open blossoms but rarely harm the tree. In hot-summer regions, provide steady soil moisture and afternoon shade, and avoid heat-reflective sites. Shelter newly planted trees from desiccating winter winds in exposed locations.
