Birch Bark Cherry

Prunus serrula

• Position: full sun
• Soil: tolerates most soils
• Rate of growth: average
• Flowering period: May
• Flower colour: white
• Other features: rounded habit
• Hardiness: fully hardy
  
  Polished mahogany coloured bark, which peels away in bands with age, is an outstanding feature of this small tree. The brilliance and shine of the bark is attractive throughout the year, especially during winter. Small, white flowers are virtually concealed by willow-like leaves in spring, followed by small cherry-like fruit.
  
  
• Garden care: When planting incorporate lots of well-rotted garden compost in the planting hole and stake firmly. Prune in summer to reduce the risk of silver leaf and bacterial canker. Cut back any dead, diseased or branches which cross to healthy wood.
  
  
• Goes well with: Viburnum davidii, Skimmia japonica 'Rubella', Geranium macrorrhizum, Helleborus argutifolius, Galanthus nivalis, Crocus tommasinianus