European bird cherry Prunus padus
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ABOUT
Prunus padus, commonly known as the bird cherry, is a deciduous tree that presents a broad and rounded crown. The bark is a dark grey with noticeable horizontal lenticels, giving it a characteristic appearance. In early to mid-spring, the bird cherry produces dense, cylindrical clusters of small white flowers, which are known for their distinctive, almond-like fragrance. Following the flowering period, this plant bears small, glossy black fruits that are popular with birds, hence the name "bird cherry." The leaves of the bird cherry are simple and arranged alternately along the branches. Each leaf is elongated with a pointed tip, and finely toothed edges. They offer a vibrant green hue that turns to yellow or red shades in the fall, providing seasonal interest. The foliage is also appreciated for its texture, contributing to the overall aesthetic quality of the plant. The visual impact of the bird cherry during blooming season is enhanced by the stark contrast between the dark branches and the profuse white flowers, making it a visually striking addition to the landscape during this time.
About this plant
Names
Family
Rosaceae
Synonyms
European Bird Cherry, Hackberry, Hagberry, Mayday Tree
Common names
Padus racemosa, Cerasus padus, Padus avium, Prunus padus var. commutata, Prunus racemosa, Prunus padus var. salicifolia, Prunus padus subsp. asiatica, Padus vulgaris, Prunus padus subsp. padus.
Toxicity
To humans
European bird cherry contains compounds that are toxic to humans if ingested in large quantities. The seeds, leaves, and bark contain cyanogenic glycosides, which can release cyanide when metabolized. Symptoms of European bird cherry poisoning may include headache, dizziness, shortness of breath, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and potentially seizures, coma, or death in severe cases. The risk of poisoning is higher if the seeds have been chewed and ingested, as this releases more of the toxic compounds.
To pets
European bird cherry also poses a risk to pets, such as dogs and cats. The toxicity is similar to that in humans, as the plant contains cyanogenic glycosides, primarily in its seeds, leaves, and bark. If a pet ingests a significant quantity, symptoms such as salivation, dilated pupils, difficulty breathing, and in severe cases, convulsions or shock can occur, potentially leading to coma or death. Immediate veterinary attention is required if a pet is suspected of ingesting this plant.
Characteristics
Life cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
30 feet (9 meters)
Spread
20 feet (6 meters)
Plant type
Tree
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits
- Ornamental Value: European bird cherry, the common name for Prunus padus, is often used for landscaping due to its attractive spring blossoms, providing aesthetic enhancement to gardens and parks.
- Wildlife Support: It offers nectar-rich flowers that attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, while its cherries provide food for birds and other wildlife.
- Shade Provider: With its mid-sized stature, European bird cherry can serve as a shade tree in small yards and urban areas, offering relief from the sun during hot weather.
- Habitat Creation: The plant can be used in creating wildlife-friendly habitats or corridors in rural and suburban areas.
- Erosion Control: Due to its root system, Prunus padus can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion on slopes and banks.
- Wood Production: The wood of European bird cherry is hard and dense, making it suitable for crafting tools, furniture, and woodturning.
Medical Properties
- Analgesic: Prunus padus has been used traditionally to relieve pain.
- Antipyretic: It has properties that may help to reduce fever.
- Anti-inflammatory: The plant may have effects that help in reducing inflammation.
- Diuretic: It has been used to promote the elimination of urine and may help in conditions such as urinary tract infections.
Air-purifying Qualities
This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses
- Ink Production: The bark of the Bird Cherry can be used to make a reddish or dark-colored ink.
- Wood Crafting: The hard, dense wood of the Bird Cherry is suitable for turning on a lathe to make small items like handles or decorative objects.
- Ornamental Use: Due to its attractive spring blossoms and autumn foliage, Bird Cherry is often planted as an ornamental tree in parks and gardens.
- Wildlife Habitat: Bird Cherry trees can provide shelter and nesting sites for birds and other wildlife.
- Dyeing Fabric: The bark and fruit of the Bird Cherry can be used to dye fabrics and yarns in various shades of red or brown.
- Photography: The extract from the bark of Bird Cherry has been historically used as a component in silver-based photographic films.
- Perfumery: The fragrant flowers of the Bird Cherry may be used to create floral scents for perfumes.
- Floral Displays: Branches of Bird Cherry, with their striking flowers, are used by florists for creating natural decorative arrangements.
- Smoking Meat: Wood chips from the Bird Cherry can impart a distinctive flavor when used for smoking meat and fish.
- Traditional Instruments: The wood of the Bird Cherry is sometimes used to craft traditional wind instruments due to its fine grain and workability.
Interesting Facts
Feng Shui
The Bird Cherry is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign Compitability
The Bird Cherry is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism
- Renewal: The European bird cherry (Prunus padus), like many cherry species, blooms in the spring, symbolizing the awakening of life and nature's renewal.
- Beauty: With its attractive blossoms, the European bird cherry reflects beauty and the aesthetic pleasure found in nature.
- Impermanence: The fleeting bloom of its flowers reminds us of life's ephemeral qualities and the transient nature of beauty and existence.
- Education: In some cultures, the European bird cherry is associated with learning and intelligence, as its name, "bird cherry," implies a connection to birds, which are often symbols of wisdom.
- Purity: The white flowers of the European bird cherry can represent purity and innocence, underlining a connection to the virtuous aspects of life.
Water
The European Bird Cherry, or Prunus padus, should be watered deeply and regularly during its growing season in the spring and summer, allowing the soil to slightly dry out between waterings. In general, it is advisable to provide about 1 to 1.5 gallons of water per week, depending on rainfall and the plant's size. During the fall and winter, reduce watering as the plant enters dormancy. Ensure the watering reaches the root zone by using a soaker hose or drip irrigation to promote deep root growth and reduce water evaporation.
Light
The European Bird Cherry thrives best in full sun to partial shade conditions. Ideally, it should receive at least four to six hours of sunlight each day. The best spot for the European Bird Cherry would be an open area where it can receive ample morning sunlight and partial afternoon shade, especially in regions with hot summers.
Temperature
The European Bird Cherry can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, surviving minimum temperatures around -30 to -20 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal growing temperature for the European Bird Cherry is between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It can withstand some heat, but prolonged temperatures over 80 degrees can be stressful for the plant.
Pruning
Pruning the European Bird Cherry is essential for removing dead or damaged limbs, shaping the tree, and promoting vigorous growth. The best time to prune is in the late winter or early spring before new growth begins. It should be pruned annually, focusing on thinning out the crown to allow light and air to circulate better, which can help prevent disease.
Cleaning
As needed
Soil
The bird cherry (Prunus padus) thrives best in well-drained, loamy soil that is rich in organic matter. A blend of garden soil, peat, and perlite or sand in equal parts can create an ideal environment for this tree. The pH should be mildly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.5, to support optimal growth.
Repotting
Bird cherry trees (Prunus padus) do not require frequent repotting as they are typically planted directly in the ground. If grown in large pots, repotting every 3-4 years may be necessary or when the tree becomes pot-bound to facilitate continued root growth.
Humidity & Misting
Bird cherry trees (Prunus padus) are adaptable to a wide range of outdoor humidity conditions. They typically thrive in the ambient humidity found in their regional outdoor environments, which does not need to be specifically controlled.
Suitable locations
Indoor
Bird cherries (Prunus padus) seldom grow well indoors due to size.
Outdoor
Plant bird cherry (Prunus padus) in full sun and in well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
3-7 USDA
Life cycle
The life of the European Bird Cherry (Prunus padus) begins with germination, which occurs when the seed finds a suitable moist and cool environment, often in spring after a period of stratification that breaks dormancy. Following germination, the seedling grows, developing a root system and shoots that emerge as leaves, and over the years, the plant transitions to a sapling stage. As it matures, the European Bird Cherry forms a woody trunk and branches, entering its vegetative stage, which is marked by significant growth. During the reproductive stage, usually in late spring, it develops clusters of fragrant white flowers that attract pollinators, followed by the formation of black cherries that contain seeds. These cherries are dispersed by birds and other animals, allowing for the spread of the plant to new areas. Finally, after several decades, the plant reaches senescence, where growth slows and it eventually dies, completing its life cycle.
Propogation
Propogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most common name for Prunus padus is European bird cherry, and its popular method of propagation is by seed. Seed propagation is best done in autumn immediately after the seeds are harvested, to mimic natural conditions and break dormancy. Clean seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mixture at a shallow depth, approximately a quarter inch (about 6 mm) deep, and spaced sufficiently to prevent crowding as seedlings grow. Seeds will typically germinate in the spring after experiencing the winter's cold stratification. Regular watering and a sunny to partly shaded location will help ensure healthy seedling growth. It's important to maintain consistent moisture but avoid waterlogging, which can lead to seed rot. Once seedlings are large enough to handle, usually after one growing season, they can be transplanted into their permanent positions.