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Dawyck Cherry

Prunus dawyckensisfam. Rosaceae
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Prunus dawyckensis (Dawyck Cherry) — botanical photograph
Pl. 8ED2 — Prunus dawyckensis
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Overview

Dawyck Cherry (Prunus dawyckensis) is a deciduous tree belonging to the Rosaceae family and is native to China's south-central region. This cherry variety thrives in light or partial sun with moist soil that can be either sandy, medium, or clay-like, making it adaptable to various conditions. Known for its edible fruit and seeds, as well as documented medicinal uses, Dawyck Cherry is a versatile plant both in the garden and for traditional remedies. The tree can grow up to 9 meters tall, adding a substantial presence in any landscape while providing valuable resources such as fruit and potential health benefits through its various parts. The fruit of the Dawyck Cherry can be eaten raw or cooked, and the seeds are also usable but should be handled with caution as they contain cyanide compounds. Typically, the fruit is enjoyed fresh for its sweet taste or used in jams and preserves. The tree's adaptability and ornamental value make it a desirable addition to gardens and landscapes. While the plant has medicinal uses, it is important to handle its parts with care, especially the seeds, due to the presence of cyanide compounds.

Quick answers

What is Dawyck Cherry?

Dawyck Cherry (Prunus dawyckensis) is a deciduous tree belonging to the Rosaceae family and is native to China's south-central region. This cherry variety thrives in light or partial sun with moist soil that can be either sandy, medium, or clay-like, making it adaptable to various conditions.

Compare with:Apple Rose→Birch Bark Cherry→Bloxam's Raspberry→all comparisons →
IV·b

Mixology suggestions

1 draft
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Dawyck Cherry support blend
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Growingconditions · propagation · uses
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Cultivation

Dawyck Cherry thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It grows well in hardiness zones 5-9, making it suitable for temperate regions. This cherry variety can reach a height of 9 meters and produces edible fruit and seeds. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist to support healthy growth.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
5-9
Mature size
9.0 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow Dawyck Cherry for the first time

8steps

Start with a Dawyck Cherry by planting it in the right conditions and providing basic care.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    A Dawyck Cherry sapling, well-draining soil, mulch, and watering can.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant in early spring or late fall when the ground is workable but not frozen.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Ensure the soil is light (sandy), medium, or heavy with good drainage. Amend as needed for pH balance.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Transplant a sapling from a nursery pot to your garden bed, ensuring it has enough space to grow.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Water the plant regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for any signs of stress.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Provide full sun or partial shade, and water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Prune lightly in late winter.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune the plant to maintain shape and remove any dead or diseased branches. Harvest fruit after it ripens.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil, not providing enough sunlight, and neglecting winter protection.

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Edible & utility

Edible parts:FruitSeed
Edible uses: The Dawyck Cherry is edible and its fruit can be eaten raw or cooked. The seeds are also usable but should be handled with caution as they contain cyanide compounds. Typically, the fruit is enjoyed fresh for its sweet taste or used in jams and preserves.
Other uses:DyeRootstock
Contextrange · companions · related
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Distribution

1 native · 0 introduced
Distribution across1 continent· 1 native
Asia1 region
native (1)China
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Specimen gallery

1 image
Prunus dawyckensis (Dawyck Cherry) — botanical photograph
Dawyck Cherry (Prunus dawyckensis)
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See also

8 related
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Explore further

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