North Star Sour Cherry
Compact, cold-hardy, and bursting with flavor—the North Star sour cherry is a beloved dwarf variety perfect for small spaces and northern climates. Reaching just 7–9 feet tall, this self-pollinating tree delivers a single, abundant crop of bright red cherries each June. The fruit is tart and juicy, ideal for pies, preserves, and fresh snacking if you like a zing.
In spring, the tree is covered in white blossoms, followed by dark green summer foliage and smooth gray bark with distinctive white lenticels. Its modest size makes it easy to prune, harvest, and protect, even in tight garden beds or under power lines.
- Zones: 4–8
- Size: 7–9 ft tall × 8–10 ft wide
- Pollination: Self-pollinating
- Ripening: Mid to late June
- Site: Full sun; moist, well-drained soil
- Growth Habit: Dwarf, rounded canopy
🛠 Care Notes:
Avoid wet soils and site in a sheltered location. Watch for common cherry pests (aphids, fruit flies, sawflies) and diseases like brown rot or leaf spot. Occasional spraying may be needed, so plan accordingly.
