Western Chokecherry

Carried by 5 nurseries

Estimated plant range Estimated plant range

Data provided by the participants of the Consortium of California Herbaria

View additional distribution information on the Jepson eflora

Plant description

Western Chokecherry (Prunus virginiana var. demissa) is a native tree or shrub that grows in northern, southern and central California. It is fast growing and short-lived. It grows in an upright form to a height of 20 feet, with active growth during the spring and summer. Flowers are white and striking, and bloom in the spring. Leaves are medium green and deciduous. It tends to grow in rocky slopes, at elevations from 0-8200 feet.

Plant overview

Plant type

Tree, Shrub

Size

20 ft Tall

Form

Upright

Growth rate

Fast

Dormancy

Winter Deciduous

Color

White

Flowering season

Spring

Special uses

Bank stabilization, Hedge

Landscaping information

Sun

Full Sun, Partial Shade, Deep Shade

Water

Moderate

Soil drainage

Fast, Medium

Soil description

Prefers well drained loam.

Propagation

For propagating by seed: 3 mos. stratification; 2 wks. warm stratification first may improve germination.

Sunset Zones

1, 2*, 3, 4*, 5*, 6*, 7*, 8, 9, 10, 14*, 15*, 16*, 17*, 18*, 19*, 20*, 21, 22, 23, 24

Natural setting

Site type

Rocky slopes

Plant communities

Chaparral, Foothill Woodland, Yellow Pine Forest, Wetland-Riparian

Wildlife supported

Bats

Caterpillars

Butterflies

Butterflies and moths supported

0 confirmed and 168 likely

Confirmed Likely

See all

Climbing Cutworm

Abagrotis orbis

Acerra normalis

Sallow Button

Acleris hastiana

Acleris senescens

Alternative names

Common names:

Chokecherry

Botanical names:

Prunus virginiana var. melanocarpa

Sources

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