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Cherry tree species grown primarily for fruit production bloom later than the ornamental varieties. Tart cherries perform best in the humid climate of Virginia's coastal region.

Latin Name

Prunus cerasus Montmorency


Family

Rosaceae


Type of Plant

Fruits Fruits
Trees Trees

Bloom Season

April

Seasons

Spring Spring

Specifications

Max height Max Height: 30'
Max spread Max Spread: 30'

Uses

  • Edible
  • Flowering Tree

  • Sunlight Exposure

    Full Sun Full Sun

    Attracted Wildlife

    Birds Birds

    Colors


    Native Range

    Europe, southwest Asia


    History

    While legend has it that a young George cut down a cherry tree, this is a myth which originated in a biography written by Mason Locke Weems just after Washington's death. As an adult, Washington was growing cherry trees on his estate as early as 1760, grafting and planting many through the years. On January 6, 1798, his gardener’s report records “Pruning & Fastening Cherry trees on the Wall” of the Upper Garden.


    Other Details

    Pollinator Pollinator
    Grown by Washington Grown by Washington

    Planted at Mount Vernon

    Planted at Mount Vernon Fruit Garden & Nursery Upper Garden

  • Fruit Garden & Nursery
  • Upper Garden

  • Hardiness Zones

    4a 4b 5a 5b 6a 6b 7a 7b 8a 8b USDA basemap

    Average annual extreme minimum temperature 1976-2005

    map legend 4a 4b 5a 5b 6a 6b 7a 7b 8a 8b

    Bartlett Tree Expert Company has been working with Mount Vernon Estate since 2011 providing expert arboricultural care and GPS mapping for the estate’s historic trees, as well as support from their research facility.   Mount Vernon is proud to partner with Bartlett Tree Experts and appreciates their sponsorship of George Washington’s Mount Vernon Plant Finder App.

    Bring Washington's Garden Home

    Purchase our historic seeds, collected from plants grown at Mount Vernon and plant them in your own garden.

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