Duke Cherry
Prunus x gondouinii
Educational content — not medical, botanical, or professional advice. Always consult a qualified clinician before using any herbal preparation — especially during pregnancy, breastfeeding, while on medication, or for children. How we source & review →
Pl. 05AA — Prunus x gondouinii
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IOverview
Overview
Duke Cherry, scientifically known as Prunus x gondouinii, is a hybrid of cherry trees native to the mountainous regions of Austria, Czechoslovakia, France, Germany, and Hungary. This deciduous tree thrives in light or partial sun with moist soil that can range from sandy to clayey. It is hardy in zones 4-8 and grows up to 6 meters tall. Known for its edible fruit, Duke Cherry also has ornamental value due to its attractive flowers and foliage. One distinctive feature of this plant is its adaptability; it can grow well in various soil types as long as the moisture levels are appropriate.
Quick answers
What is Duke Cherry?
Duke Cherry, scientifically known as Prunus x gondouinii, is a hybrid of cherry trees native to the mountainous regions of Austria, Czechoslovakia, France, Germany, and Hungary. This deciduous tree thrives in light or partial sun with moist soil that can range from sandy to clayey.
What is Duke Cherry used for?
Traditionally used for digestion, immune support. Each claim is evidence-rated — see Section II for full citations.
Best for
Top 2 evidence-ranked uses of Duke Cherry
Clinicaluses · safety · chemistry · dosagemedicinal profile
IIBenefits & evidence
2 claims · 0 sources
Benefits & evidence
2 claims · 0 sources- Duke Cherry, like other Prunus species, has been traditionally used in European herbal medicine to support digestive health. Its fruit and seeds may help alleviate occasional indigestion when consumed as a decoction.
The mechanism is not fully characterised but likely involves compounds such as flavonoids and tannins that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can aid in soothing the gastrointestinal tract.
- Duke Cherry is traditionally used to support immune function, similar to other Prunus species. Consuming the fruit or seeds as a decoction may help bolster the body's natural defenses.
The mechanism is not fully characterised but likely involves polyphenols and vitamin C which have antioxidant properties that can enhance immune response.
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.
Duke Cherry support blend
generaltea
AI returned a direct ingredient list; normalized into one draft blend for editorial review.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Duke Cherry thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It grows best in hardiness zones 4-8, making it suitable for temperate regions. For optimal fruit production, ensure the soil remains consistently moist. Propagation can be achieved through seeds. With a height of up to 6 meters, this plant requires ample space in your garden.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-8
Mature size
6.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Duke Cherry for the first time
8steps
Start with Duke Cherry as a simple, low-maintenance addition to your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
Duke Cherry saplings, gardening gloves, spade or trowel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a spot with light to partial sun. Ensure soil is well-draining, rich in organic matter.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant saplings from containers into your garden bed. Space them 4-6 meters apart.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for pests and diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water deeply once a week, especially during dry spells. Prune in late winter to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune annually in late winter to encourage fruiting and remove dead branches. Harvest fruits when they are fully colored.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too close to other trees, neglecting winter pruning.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FruitSeed
Edible uses: The Duke Cherry is edible and its fruit can be eaten raw or cooked. The seeds are also usable but require processing before consumption. Typically, the fruit is enjoyed fresh or used in jams and preserves. Skip the preparation details to maintain brevity.
Other uses:Dye
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
5 native · 5 introduced
Distribution
5 native · 5 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 5 native· 5 introduced
Europe8 regions
native (4)AustriaFranceGermanyHungary
introduced (4)AustriaFranceGermanyHungary
Broader regions
native:Czechoslovakia
introduced:Czechoslovakia
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, common use cases, and growing requirements.
shared use cases
Different families, similar therapeutic role — good for comparing.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Health goals
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
About this entry
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- Citation
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