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Description
Prunus Virginiana Var. Demissa, commonly known as Western Chokecherry, is a deciduous shrub or small tree that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is native to North America and is a common plant in the western and central parts of the United States. This plant is known for its beautiful white flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer, followed by purple-black berries in late summer and early fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain| Eukaryota ||————|———–|| Kingdom| Plantae|| Phylum| Spermatophyta || Class| Magnoliopsida || Order| Rosales|| Family| Rosaceae|| Genus| Prunus|| Species| Prunus Virginiana || Variety| Demissa|
Appearance
Western Chokecherry can grow up to 20 feet tall and 15 feet wide, but typically ranges from 6 to 12 feet tall and wide. It has oval-shaped leaves that are dark green, turning to yellow or orange in the fall. The flowers are small and white, growing in clusters that measure about 2 to 4 inches long. The fruit of this plant is a small, purple-black cherry that is about 1/4 inch in diameter.
Care Guide
Water: Western Chokecherry requires moderate watering, especially during the first few growing seasons. After that, it can tolerate some drought. Fertilization: This plant does not require much fertilizer, but a slow-release fertilizer can be applied in the spring. Soil: Western Chokecherry prefers well-drained soil, but it can also tolerate clay soil. Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun, but it can also tolerate partial shade. Hardiness Zones: Western Chokecherry can grow in USDA hardiness zones 2 to 7.
Common Pests & Diseases
Western Chokecherry is generally a hardy plant, but it can be susceptible to some pests and diseases. Some common pests include aphids, scale insects, and tent caterpillars. Diseases that can affect this plant include black knot, powdery mildew, and fire blight.
Habitat
Western Chokecherry is native to North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, prairies, and along streams and rivers. It is commonly used in landscaping and can be found in parks, gardens, and along highways.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Western Chokecherry edible?
A: Yes, the fruit of this plant is edible and is often used to make jams and jellies. Q: Can Western Chokecherry be grown in containers?
A: It is not recommended to grow this plant in containers as it can grow quite large. Q: How often should Western Chokecherry be pruned?
A: This plant can be pruned in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged branches. Q: How fast does Western Chokecherry grow?
A: This plant typically grows about 1 to 2 feet per year.
Related Plants
– Prunus Americana- Prunus Besseyi- Prunus Cerasifera- Prunus Mahaleb- Prunus Serotina
References
– USDA Plants Database- Missouri Botanical Garden- The Spruce- Gardenia.net
