tree

Canada Red Chokecherry

Prunus virginiana 'Canada Red'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

300 inches

Width

240 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

Adaptable

Lifespan

Short-lived deciduous tree

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Wilted leaves, stems, and seeds are toxic if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Prunus virginiana is a hardy, adaptable small tree or large shrub native to North America, known for its suckering habit, fragrant spring flowers, and astringent fruit. The 'Canada Red' cultivar is selected for its unique foliage which emerges green in spring before maturing to a rich, consistent burgundy-red for the summer and fall.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

The primary ornamental feature is the dramatic foliage that changes from green to deep reddish-purple, providing season-long color. Drooping racemes of fragrant white flowers are also attractive in spring.

Its extreme hardiness and adaptability make it a useful tree for difficult sites, windbreaks, and shelterbelts in cold climates. The fruit can be used to make jelly, syrup, and wine.

As a native species, it is a valuable wildlife plant. The flowers support a wide range of pollinators. The fruit is a major food source for numerous bird species and mammals. It is also a larval host plant for several butterfly species, including the tiger swallowtail.

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Planting

How to Grow

Select a location in full sun for best foliage color.
This tree is highly adaptable to a wide range of soil types.
Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball.
Place the tree in the hole, ensuring the root flare is at soil level.
Backfill with native soil and water thoroughly.
Control suckers from the base as they appear, unless a thicket is desired.

Pro Tip

Be vigilant for black knot disease; prune out any galls as soon as they appear, cutting several inches into healthy wood.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide full sun for the deepest red foliage color.
Prune out suckers regularly to maintain a single-trunk tree form.
Monitor for black knot and prune it out immediately.
Water during prolonged drought, although it is very tolerant.

Don't

Don't plant near other susceptible Prunus species to avoid spreading black knot.
Avoid planting in shady areas, as the foliage will not color up well.
Don't allow livestock to graze near the tree due to toxicity of wilted leaves.
Don't expect a long-lived tree; it is typically short-lived (20-30 years).

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Pest Check
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Color-contrast accent treeHardy tree for cold climatesNaturalizing in shelterbelts and windbreaks

Companion Plants

Rhus typhina Juniperus virginiana Schizachyrium scoparium Amelanchier alnifolia Symphoricarpos albus

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Canada Red Chokecherry questions

What zones can Canada Red Chokecherry grow in?

Canada Red Chokecherry is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Canada Red Chokecherry deer resistant?

Yes — Canada Red Chokecherry is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Canada Red Chokecherry bloom?

Canada Red Chokecherry typically blooms in late spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Canada Red Chokecherry need full sun?

Canada Red Chokecherry does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is Canada Red Chokecherry drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Canada Red Chokecherry handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.