JC Raulston Arboretum at NC State University
Family
Rosaceae
Botanical Name
PRUNUS besseyi
Plant Common Name
Bessey's Cherry, Sand Cherry
General Description
Sand cherry gets high marks for its good looks, tough constitution, and delicious fruits which are relished by humans and wildlife alike. It produces a medium sized, multi-stemmed, deciduous shrub, whose branches are densely laden with finger-length, silvery-green, shiny, serrated leaves which turn bright red in the fall. Its woody stems are covered with reddish-brown bark, which darkens to gray as it ages. In late spring, sand cherry bursts into a cloud of white flowers, followed by a crop of small, tart cherries, which are edible and excellent for use in pies and jams. The plants also provide food and nesting shelter for many kinds of birds, who relish the tasty fruits and seeds.
Native to sandy soils and sunny, exposed sites of northern Colorado and the western plains of North America, sand cherry can stand up to harsh environmental conditions. It is adapted to withstand the buildup of windblown sand, which collects around the base of the plants without risk of crown rot. These hardy plants should be grown in full to part sun and well-drained soil. They grow more quickly with some supplemental water, but are not suitable for poorly-drained, clay soils. Once established little care or additional water is needed.
While this species has remained relatively unused in the past, recent breeding has produced sand cherry varieties with improved ornamental attributes. These include ‘Select Spreader’, which features a broad, horizontal habit, and ‘Pawnee Buttes’, a low-growing, groundcover form. All are beautiful, low-maintenance, wildlife-friendly, waterwise choices for sustainable landscapes and gardens.
Characteristics
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AHS Heat Zone
8 - 1
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USDA Hardiness Zone
4 - 8
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Plant Type
Shrub
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Sun Exposure
Full Sun, Partial Sun
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Height
4'-5' / 1.2m - 1.5m
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Width
5'-6' / 1.5m - 1.8m
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Bloom Time
Spring, Late Spring
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Native To
Western United States
Growing Conditions
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Habit
Spreading
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Seasonal Interest
Spring, Summer, Fall
Ornamental Features
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Flower Interest
Showy
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Fragrant Flowers
Yes
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Fragrant Fruit
No
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Fragrant Foliage
No
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Bark or Stem Fragrant
No
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Repeat Bloomer
No
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Showy Fruit
Yes
