(Prunus padus 'Drietree')
Many Prunus species are
affected by the fungus black knot
(Apiosporina morbosa), includ-
ing European bird cherry and its
cousin, chokecherry (P. virgin-
iana). Insect problems for bird
cherry are usually minor, and may
include aphids, scale, borers, tent
caterpillars, and gypsy moth.
The Merlot European bird cherry
maintains an upright, uniform
growth habit with a strong central
leader and narrow oval crown. As
a street tree, it requires relatively
little maintenance and will mature
at a height of 30 feet (9.1 m) and
a width of 15 feet (4.6 m), making
it a possible selection for planting
under high-voltage utility lines.
Fruit from the bird cherry is small
enough that it will not clog storm
drains or leave a mess on side-
walks and parked cars. In favorable
sites, with full sun exposure or
partial shade, bird cherry grows at
a medium rate and has an average
lifespan of approximately 60 years.
With its high tolerance of urban
conditions, cold-hardiness, low
maintenance needs, beauti-
ful maroon foliage, and fruit for
wild birds, the Merlot European
bird cherry presents a reliable
and attractive alternative for
almost any landscape.
—Jennifer Jolliff, ISA Certified
Arborist, Municipal Specialist,
City of Bozeman, Montana
Forestry Division
Right-top: Nursery rows show the
upright habit of Merlot European
bird cherry. Photo Courtesy J. Frank
Schmidt & Son. Co.
Right-bottom: The distinctive bur-
gundy foliage of Merlot European
bird cherry. Photo Courtesy J. Frank
Schmidt & Son. Co.
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