Montmorency Cherry

Attributes:
Montmorency cherry is the most popular tart cherry in America. The tastiness of its bright, red cherries in pies and preserves make it a favorite with cooks, while its tolerance for temperature extremes, its production, and the firmness of its fruit are appreciated by farmers and shippers.

Wildlife Value:
The fruit is eaten by many varieties of birds and mammals. The foliage is browsed. Flocks of birds are the greatest threat to the trees. They will eat the cherries at the first sign of ripeness. Nylon or cheesecloth netting draped over the trees as the fruits begin to ripen is an effective deterent. This technique can be very practical if the trees are kept to a reasonable height by pruning.

History/Lore/Use:
This cherry takes its name from the Montmorency Valley in France where it was developed sometime before the seventeenth century. Its fame quickly spread to England. It has been cultivated under various names in the United States from at least the early nineteeth century. It accounts for 95% of all production of sour cherries.

Height Variations:
The standard grows to 18', and dwarf grows to 8' in height.

Spread Variations:
The Montmorency cherry tree has a spread of about 10'-20'.

Moisture:
This tree requires moist, well drained soil and has some resistance to drought.

Leaves:
Simple, alternate, elliptic with acute tips, smooth and dark green on top, about 3" long with double teeth at margin

Flower Color:
White

Bloom Time:
Late.

Fruit Description:
Medium large, bright red fruit with firm, yellow flesh, a rich tart, tangy flavor and clear juice.