Chokecherry (PRUNUS VIRGINIANA CANADA RED) -'Canada Red'
Prunus virginiana ‘Canada Red’ is magnificent with it's oval to rounded crown, straight trunk and showy white blooms in the spring. Leaves emerge green in the spring, but around 90% of the foliage has turned a lovely dark purple hue by June. Many selections of purple foliaged chokecherries have circulated within the nursery trade, but this selection from Bailey Nurseries seems to be superior because of its central leader, its upright growth habit, its lighter fruit set and better purple color retention in late summer. This tough, but beautiful, ornamental chokecherry is the perfect choice for difficult spots.
This gorgeous, hardy tree reaches a mature height of 25 feet and spread of 18 feet. Comfortable down to a USDA Hardiness Zone 2, The 'Canada Red' Chokecherry is an excellent selection for colder regions. Plant 'Canada Red' in a location that recieves full sun, however, it can tolerate partial shade. It is a very hardy tree able to tolerate heat, cold, wind, and poor soil. It will appreciate well-drained soil, however, so be sure to plant accordingly, but it really is very adaptable. Because of its natural inclination to send suckers from the base of this tree, prune these back as they emerge. New leaf growth on branches as well as suckers will emerge green. Water when top 2 inches of soil become dry. This tree would make an ideal specimen tree or used in a group planting of trees in areas with extremely difficult conditions. Useful as a lawn tree, in parkway plantings, open spaces, wildlife gardens, natural prairies and homesteads. Also a highly attractive ornamental tree for city yards. 'Canada Red' is highly adaptable. Water deeply, regularly during the first growing season to establish an extensive root system. Once established, reduce frequencyas this tree prefers regular water but tolerates mild, periodic dry spells as well.