Canada Red Chokecherry

The Canada Red Chokecherry (Prunus virginiana ‘Canada Red’) is a small- to medium-sized flowering ornamental tree that has multiple seasons of interest. It has outstanding foliage that emerges in the spring as bright green before distinctively developing into dark reddish-purple. By June, all but some of the leaves are purple. 

In mid to late summer, small dark red fruits appear on the branches before the foliage turns bright red in the fall. Also appearing in the spring when the leaves are still green are fragrant white flowers that hang below the branches from pendulous twigs. On top of spring, summer, and fall interest, this tree’s arching, spreading branches and evenly rounded crown that sits atop a straight trunk provides an attractive silhouette in the winter time.  

The Canada Red Chokecherry was introduced in 1999 and was selected for its improved growth rate, straight central leader, uniform branching habit, and consistent red-purple leaf color. This tree is a great choice as a showy specimen standing on its own or with other trees in places where conditions are very harsh. It also is very tolerant of pollution and can make for a great display in inner city environments. It is extremely cold hardy and can grow in any soil type as long as it drains well. Does well in full to partial sun and is drought tolerant once established.