(Prunus virginiana)
These plants readily form suckers (rhizomatous roots) and can create thickets, making them excellent for wildlife habitat or privacy screens.
Ever wonder where cherry flavored cough syrup originated from? This stems from a long tradition of Indigenous medicine, using the inner bark and berries of Prunus virginiana to treat respiratory ailments, sore throats, and colds. Recognized by 19th-century American doctors for its antitussive properties, the bark was listed in the U.S. Pharmacopoeia from 1820 to 1970. It served as a natural, soothing remedy for, and flavor agent in, early cough syrups.
ZONE: 2-7
POLLINATOR: Yes, "highly"
DEER RESISTANT: New shoots and leaves may be prone to grazing, but all of the sites I have visited chokecherry I have not seen an issue.
DROUGHT TOLERANT: Yes, "highly" once established but for optimal berry production you will want moist soil
EVERGREEN: No
SPREADS BY SEED: Yes
NEEDS A CROSS POLLINATOR: Self fertile
AGE OF PLANT: Estimated 2-3yrs old (current stock)
MATURE HEIGHT: Ability to grow 25ft tall and 15ft wide, but is easily kept 5-10ft tall with annual late winter or early spring pruning practices.
CHOKECHERRY
PLANTING & GROWING
Plant in full sun and various soils, best planted in spring or fall, 5–15 feet apart. They require well-drained soil, regular water during the first season to establish, and are known for producing edible berries used in jams.
MEDICINAL BENEFITS
- Bark tea or syrup is used for coughs, cold symptoms, tuberculosis, and to loosen phlegm
- High-tannin content makes it an effective remedy for diarrhea and digestive issues. Dried berries are used for treating stomach ailments
- Historically, it was used to reduce labor pains, treat postpartum hemorrhage, and act as a sedative.
- High in Vitamin C
- Potassium
- Antioxidants
* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases.
FLAVOR & PAIRING
Chokecherries are wild, intensely tart, and astringent berries with a deep, earthy cherry flavor. They are best utilized when cooked with ample sugar to create syrups, jams, and jellies. They pair exceptionally well with citrus (lemon/lime), warming spices, creamy cheeses, and savory meats like bison or game.