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I have a wild cherry tree... #258822

Asked July 02, 2015, 2:45 PM EDT

I have a wild cherry tree that I planted years ago for habitat (think I got it from the Washington County Program). I think it was called a Nante Cherry, or something like that. I was wondering if the cherries are edible, I had a wild cherry pie last year from a friend and it was great! Cherries are about 1/2 inch.

Washington County Minnesota

Expert Response

I really can't tell you if the tree is edible or ornamental unless I know what it is. I would assume that if you planted it for habitat that it isn't a sour pie cherry variety. I guess you could taste one of the fruit and see. Sour cherries for pies and cooking are a tart cherry with a red center. If you cut into the fruit and it is spongy or yellow I would assume that it is ornamental.
An Ask Extension Expert Replied July 06, 2015, 3:27 PM EDT
Do not eat or taste the cherry. It could be poisonous, depending on what it is.
An Ask Extension Expert Replied July 06, 2015, 3:31 PM EDT
Someone has suggested that it may a Nanking Cherry because they are used in plots. If that is what it is it could be used for pie or jelly but it isn't the same as a sour pie cherry. Here is a link to info. https://www.ag.ndsu.edu/trees/handbook/th-3-11.pdf
An Ask Extension Expert Replied July 06, 2015, 3:49 PM EDT
I think you're right about it being a Nanking Cherry. The leaves and bark description seem right. 

I've attached a few more pictures below.
The Question Asker Replied July 07, 2015, 10:34 AM EDT

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