Nanking Cherry

Nanking Cherry: A Edible Landscaping Superstar

(Prunus tomentosa)

Nanking Cherry  is a compact, deciduous shrub prized for its beautiful early spring blossoms and bountiful sweet-tart fruits. At Humble Abode Nursery, we offer this versatile plant for those seeking a cold-hardy, low-maintenance fruit option for small spaces.

Typically growing 6-10 feet tall and wide, Nanking Cherries form a dense, rounded shape. In early spring, before the leaves emerge, they produce a profusion of pale pink to white flowers, followed by small, bright red cherries in early summer.

These shrubs thrive in full sun to partial shade and prefer well-drained soil. They’re remarkably cold-hardy, suitable for USDA zones 3-7, making them an excellent choice for northern gardens where sweet cherries might struggle.

The fruits, while smaller than standard cherries, are flavorful and can be eaten fresh or used in jams, jellies, and pies. They’re rich in vitamins and antioxidants. Plant 2 or more for pollination.

These shrubs provide multiple seasons of interest: spring flowers, summer fruits, and attractive exfoliating bark in winter. They’re valuable for wildlife, offering early season nectar for pollinators and fruits for birds.

By incorporating Nanking Cherries into your landscape, you’re adding a hardy, multi-purpose shrub that offers both ornamental and edible benefits. Whether you’re creating an edible hedge, looking for fruiting plants for small spaces, or seeking cold-hardy alternatives to traditional fruit trees, Nanking Cherry provides a compact and rewarding solution.

Variety Info:

‘White’—A unique white fruited variety with extra sweet and large berries.

‘Cheropugy’—A red fruiting selection from a fruit enthusiast/collector Vojtech Slavetinsky from the Czech Republic.