When it comes to cherries that grow on a bush, there are three main types that come to mind: Nanking Cherries, Korean Cherries, and fall-bearing cherries. Each of these varieties has its own unique characteristics and qualities that make them a great choice for any garden or landscape.
1. Nanking Cherries:
Nanking Cherries (Prunus tomentosa) are small fruiting shrubs that produce deliciously tart cherries. These bush cherries are native to China and are known for their hardiness and ability to withstand cold temperatures. They typically grow to be about 6 to 10 feet tall and wide, making them a great choice for smaller gardens or even container planting.
One of the great things about Nanking Cherries is that they are self-fertile, meaning you only need one plant to produce fruit. The cherries are usually bright red and have a slightly sour taste, perfect for making jams, jellies, or even adding a tangy twist to desserts. These cherries ripen in early summer and attract birds, which can be a delightful sight to see in your garden.
2. Korean Cherries:
Korean Cherries (Prunus tomentosa var. insititia), also known as Manchu cherries, are another type of bush cherry that offers beautiful blooms and edible fruit. They are closely related to Nanking Cherries but have slightly different characteristics. Korean Cherries are slightly larger in size, growing up to 12 feet tall and wide.
These cherries are also self-fertile, so you only need one plant to enjoy their delicious fruit. The cherries are typically dark red to black and have a sweeter flavor compared to Nanking Cherries. They are great for fresh eating, making preserves, or even adding a burst of flavor to salads. Like Nanking Cherries, Korean Cherries attract birds and can add a touch of wildlife to your garden.
3. Fall-bearing Cherries:
Fall-bearing cherries, also known as autumn cherries, are a unique type of bush cherry that differs from the previously mentioned varieties. While Nanking and Korean cherries produce fruit in the summer, fall-bearing cherries (Prunus subhirtella) produce their cherries in the fall, as the name suggests.
These cherries are typically smaller in size and have a sweet-tart flavor. They can be enjoyed fresh or used in various culinary creations. Fall-bearing cherries are known for their stunning display of fall foliage, with leaves turning vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. This makes them an excellent choice for adding a pop of color to your garden as the seasons change.
Personal Experience:
In my own garden, I have had the pleasure of growing Nanking Cherries. Their hardiness and ability to withstand harsh winters have impressed me time and time again. The bright red cherries bring a burst of color to my garden, and the tart flavor adds a unique twist to homemade jams. The birds love them too, and it’s always a joy to watch them enjoy the fruit.
While I haven’t personally grown Korean Cherries or fall-bearing cherries, I have seen them in other gardens and landscapes. The larger size of Korean Cherries and the fall foliage of fall-bearing cherries make them visually appealing choices. I have tasted Korean Cherries and can vouch for their sweeter flavor, which makes them a great choice for snacking.
If you’re looking to grow cherries on a bush, Nanking Cherries, Korean Cherries, and fall-bearing cherries are all fantastic options. Each variety offers unique characteristics and flavors, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your taste preferences and garden needs. Whether you’re a fan of tart cherries, sweet cherries, or simply want a beautiful display of fall foliage, there’s a bush cherry out there for you.
