Mountain Cherry
Prunus prostratafam. Rosaceae
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Pl. 262B — Prunus prostrata
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IOverview
Overview
Mountain Cherry, scientifically known as Prunus prostrata and belonging to the Rosaceae family, is a subshrub that can be found in various Mediterranean regions including Albania, Algeria, France, Greece, Lebanon-Syria, and Spain. This plant is both edible and medicinal, making it valuable for its fruit and seeds. It thrives in moist, light to heavy soil with a pH range of 5.5–6.5, reaching a height of about 1 meter. Its native range includes Albania, Algeria, Corse, East Aegean Islands, France, Greece, Kriti, Lebanon-Syria, and Spain, highlighting its adaptability in diverse environments. One distinctive feature is its subshrub habit, which sets it apart from other Prunus species.
Quick answers
What is Mountain Cherry?
Mountain Cherry, scientifically known as Prunus prostrata and belonging to the Rosaceae family, is a subshrub that can be found in various Mediterranean regions including Albania, Algeria, France, Greece, Lebanon-Syria, and Spain. This plant is both edible and medicinal, making it valuable for its fruit and seeds.
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.
Digestive Harmony
digestiontincture
Historically used for digestive issues.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Mountain Cherry thrives in moist, well-drained soils with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. It prefers light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soil types but can adapt to various conditions. This subshrub grows up to 1 meter tall and requires moderate sunlight. For propagation, use seeds or cuttings. Given its native range in temperate regions of Europe and North Africa, it is hardy in these areas but may require protection in colder climates. Harvest the fruit for consumption.
Light
7/10
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Habit
Subshrub
Mature size
1.0 m tall
Soil pH
5.5–6.5
For first-time growers
How to grow Mountain Cherry for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple planting of Mountain Cherry to gain experience in growing this shrub.
- 1
What you'll need
Mountain Cherry seeds or young plants, potting soil, containers if starting indoors.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or in fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use a well-draining potting mix with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. Ensure containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
For seeds, sow them in early spring at a depth of about twice their size. For young plants, plant them directly into the ground or larger pots.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Place containers in a partially shaded area to avoid direct sunlight.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly, especially during dry spells, and mulch around the base to retain moisture. Prune lightly to shape the plant.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter before new growth starts to maintain the shrub's size and shape. Harvest fruits when they are fully ripe.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, neglecting to prune, and exposing young plants to direct sunlight.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FruitSeed
Edible uses: The Mountain Cherry (Prunus prostrata) is edible and its fruit can be eaten raw or cooked. The seeds are also usable but require careful preparation as they contain cyanide precursors. Typically, the fruits are consumed fresh or used in jams and preserves. SKIP
Other uses:Dye
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
14 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
14 native · 0 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 14 native
Europe5 regions
native (5)AlbaniaFranceGreeceItalySpain
Asia1 region
native (1)Turkey
Africa3 regions
native (3)AlgeriaMoroccoTunisia
Broader regions
native:East Aegean Is., Kriti, Lebanon-Syria, Yugoslavia
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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