tree

Chokecherry

Prunus virginiana

Updated 4 Aug 2026 · AI-parsed entry

Chokecherry (Prunus virginiana) — a tree, for Full sun, Medium water.

What it needs & gives back

↓ Needs

Lightfull sun to partial shade
Watermedium

↑ Gives back

Mulch_biomassmedium
Fruitedible, tart
Nectarattracts pollinators
Pollenattracts pollinators

Through the year

Through the year

JFMAMJJASOND
emergenceBud break and leaf emergence typically occur after the last spring frost and when air temperatures consistently rise above 5°C.
floweringFlowering occurs shortly after leaf emergence, usually within two weeks.
fruitingFruit development follows flowering, with fruits ripening in mid-summer.
harvestChokecherries are typically ready for harvest from mid-July through August, depending on the region.
senescenceLeaves begin to change color and drop with the first autumn frosts and shortening day lengths.
dormancyThe plant enters dormancy after leaf senescence, lasting through winter until chill requirements are met.

Soil interactions

Drainagewell-drained to moist
Nitrogen fixingNo
MycorrhizalYes
Accumulatescalcium, potassium
Soil textureloam, sand, clay
Organic matterMedium
Compaction toleranceMedium

Propagation

Methodsseeds, cuttings, suckers
Difficulty2 / 5
Establishes in~2 yr
Stratificationrequires cold stratification for 2-3 months
Self-seedingModerate
Divisionspring

Wildlife & pests

Attractsbees, butterflies, birds, mammals
Can host peststent caterpillars, cherry fruit fly, aphids
Can host diseasesblack knot, brown rot, cherry leaf spot