Pin Cherry
Prunus pensylvanicafam. Rosaceae
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Pl. 4165 — Prunus pensylvanica
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IOverview
Overview
Pin Cherry (Prunus pensylvanica) is a deciduous tree or shrub native to the eastern and north-central United States, as well as parts of Canada. It thrives in various habitats across its range, from Alberta and British Columbia to Georgia and Wisconsin. Known for its edible fruit, which can be used fresh or processed into jams and preserves, Pin Cherry also has ornamental value with white flowers in spring and red berries in summer. This adaptable plant prefers moist, light to heavy soil with a pH between 4.3 and 7.3, and it requires full sun to grow well. Its distinctive features include the small, reddish-brown fruit and its ability to tolerate a wide range of environmental conditions.
Quick answers
What is Pin Cherry?
Pin Cherry (Prunus pensylvanica) is a deciduous tree or shrub native to the eastern and north-central United States, as well as parts of Canada. It thrives in various habitats across its range, from Alberta and British Columbia to Georgia and Wisconsin.
IV·bMixology suggestions
1 draft
Mixology suggestions
1 draftEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Pin Cherry support blend
generaltea
AI returned a direct ingredient list; normalized into one draft blend for editorial review.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Pin Cherry thrives in full sun and requires moist but well-drained soil that can range from light (sandy) to heavy (clay). It is adaptable to a pH between 4.3 and 7.3. This tree or shrub grows up to 12 meters tall and is native to various northeastern and north-central states and provinces, making it hardy in temperate regions. For propagation, consider sowing seeds directly after collecting them from the fruit.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Habit
Tree, Shrub
Mature size
12.0 m tall
Soil pH
4.3–7.3
For first-time growers
How to grow Pin Cherry for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple Pin Cherry tree to gain experience in growing trees from seeds.
- 1
What you'll need
Pin Cherry seeds, potting soil, containers or garden space.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring or late fall when the ground is not frozen.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with a pH between 4.3 and 7.3, ensuring containers are at least 15 cm deep.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Plant seeds about 2.5 cm deep in the soil; keep moist until germination.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil consistently moist and provide partial shade to help seedlings establish.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly, especially during dry spells, and mulch around the base for moisture retention.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter before new growth starts; harvest fruit when ripe but avoid over-picking.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, neglecting to prune, and not providing enough sunlight.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FruitSeed
Edible uses: Gum
Other uses:Weaving materialDyeGumPioneerErosion controlLumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 30 native
Asia1 region
native (1)Georgia
Broader regions
native:West Virginia, British Columbia, Colorado, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Manitoba, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Brunswick, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Newfoundland, North Carolina, North Dakota, Northwest Territorie, Nova Scotia, Ohio, Ontario, Pennsylvania, Québec, Rhode I., Saskatchewan, South Dakota
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Rosaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Rosaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
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