Tree Species: Bird cherry (Prunus padus)

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Native to the UK and much of northern Europe and Asia.

Deciduous – leaves fall in autumn.

Leaves: Oval to elliptic (6–12 cm), pointed tip, finely serrated edges, and dull green in colour. Underside slightly paler and often downy along veins. Arranged alternately.

Bark: Grey-brown, smooth when young, with a bitter almond smell when scratched due to cyanogenic compounds. Older bark becomes fissured.

Flowers/Fruit/Seeds: Distinctive long, drooping clusters (racemes) of fragrant white flowers in May, each with five petals. These develop into small, bitter, black cherries in late summer.

Overall shape: Usually a small to medium-sized tree or large shrub with a rounded, spreading crown.

7–12 m tall; spread 6–10 m.

Widespread across the UK, especially in the north and west. Found in damp woodland, hedgerows, riversides, and scrub. Thrives on moist, fertile soils but tolerates a range of conditions.

Long drooping racemes of white blossom (unlike wild cherry, which has upright clusters).

Bitter almond scent from bark and leaves.

Smaller, very bitter black cherries.

Spring: Striking drooping clusters of fragrant white flowers.

Summer: Glossy green foliage with forming cherries.

Autumn: Leaves turn yellow before falling; cherries ripen black.

Winter: Bare crown, bark and buds visible.

Fruits historically used in flavourings and folk medicine, though too bitter for regular eating.

Bark used in traditional remedies as a sedative and cough treatment.

Planted ornamentally for blossom.

Flowers provide nectar and pollen for bees, hoverflies, and other insects.

Fruits eaten by birds such as thrushes and starlings (though bitter to humans).

Caterpillars of several moths, including the bird cherry ermine, feed on its leaves.

In folklore, bird cherry was sometimes considered unlucky because of its bitter scent and association with illness, but also valued for its healing bark.

In parts of northern Europe, bird cherry blossom is a key sign of spring.

Best time to plant: Late autumn or early spring.

Soil: Prefers moist, fertile soils; tolerates loam, clay, and sandy soils; dislikes very dry or chalky ground.

Light: Thrives in full sun or partial shade.

Watering: Water regularly until established; prefers moist conditions.

Spacing: 4–8 m apart for woodland or hedgerow planting.

Aftercare: Mulch base to conserve moisture. Protect young trees from browsing. Prune lightly in late summer if required to shape.

Urban: Suitable for parks and naturalistic plantings; less common as a street tree.

Garden: Works well in medium to large gardens, especially wildlife-friendly designs. Attractive blossom in spring, but fruits can be messy on paths.

Bees: Bee friendly!