Western Sand Cherry

Common Name : Western Sand Cherry

Scientific Name : Prunus besseyi

Zone : 3 to 8

Height : 4 to 6 feet

Width : 5 to 6 feet

Culture :

Prefering full sun, it adapts to heat and can be used in hot, dry areas of the landscape. Well-drained soil is preferable, but it will adapt to most soils, including clay.

Description :

The Sand Cherry is valued in the landscape for its rugged constitution and ornamental attributes. The Sand Cherry was chosen for this group because of its profuse white spring flowers, leaves that are an attractive gray green, a heavy crop of juicy black berries, outstanding red fall foliage and nice semi-horizontal spreading habit. This is one of the hardiest of deciduous shrubs. Provides preferred fruit for numerous songbirds. Growth form creates good roosting and loafing cover for songbirds and game birds, and nesting cover for songbirds. Occasionally browsed by deer. Native to northern Great Plains, including northeastern Colorado.

Problem :

The Sand Cherry is rarely bothered by insects or diseases. This is a relatively low maintenance shrub, and is best pruned in late winter once the threat of extreme cold has passed. It has no significant negative characteristics.

Garden Uses:

Western Sandcherry is recommended for the following landscape applications; General Garden UseOrchard/Edible Landscaping Mass Planting

http://www.ag.ndsu.edu/trees/handbook/th-3-45.pdf

http://plants.treetopnurserymn.com/12060004/Plant/336/Western_Sandcherry