Bird Cherry, Prunus padus

Bird Cherry,Prunus padus is a deciduous tree or large shrub native to Europe and northern Asia. It's known for its fragrant flowers and ecological importance. Here's a detailed overview:

🌳 Basic Facts

Common Names: Bird cherry, European bird cherry, hackberry (not to be confused with Celtis species)
Scientific Name: Prunus padus
Family: Rosaceae (Rose family)
Origin: Europe, northern and western Asia

🌼 Description

Height: Typically 15–40 feet (5–12 m)
Form: Rounded crown; sometimes multi-stemmed
Leaves: Oval, finely serrated, dark green; turn yellow in fall
Flowers:

Small, white, fragrant

Arranged in drooping clusters (racemes)

Bloom in late spring (April–May)
Fruit:

Small black cherries (6–8 mm)

Bitter to humans but loved by birds (hence the name)

Ripe in summer (June–August)

🐝 Ecological Value

Pollinators: Flowers attract bees, flies, and butterflies.
Birds/Wildlife: Fruits are a key food source for many bird species.
Host Plant: Supports various moth and butterfly larvae.

🌿 Uses

Ornamental: Grown for spring flowers and wildlife value
Traditional Medicine: Bark and leaves used in folk remedies (contains cyanogenic compounds—use with caution)
Wood: Occasionally used for small carvings or turning

⚠️ Toxicity

Leaves, bark, and seeds contain cyanogenic glycosides (prunasin), which release cyanide when metabolized.

Dangerous if consumed in large quantities by humans or livestock.

🌱 Growing Conditions

Light: Full sun to partial shade
Soil: Moist, well-drained; tolerates a variety of soil types
Hardiness: USDA Zones 2–6
Maintenance: Low once established; can sucker and form thickets