Native to Northern Europe and Asia, the Prunus padus ‘Colorata’ also known as Purple Bird Cherry is a very similar tree to other Cherry’s including the Wild Cherry. Purple Bird Cherry was awarded Award of Garden Merit in 1993.

Purple Bird can be found with small white flowers during the early Spring which then are followed by dark red, bitter cherries come the end of spring and on into Summer. These are accompanied by purple leaf buds and steams which will turn to a bronze colour when mature which give the Purple Bird Cherry a unique display of foliage. These leaves will become a green colour during summer and will last until the Autumn time.  Bird Cherry is also found with a very smooth bark that is easy to peel off and will grow to a mature height of around 6-8m making it a perfect choice for a small garden.

Bird Cherry is a very easy tree to grow with being full frost hardy and thriving in most, free draining soils. Best planted in a parkland or garden, not able to tolerate paving.

Tree Specs

• Common Name: Purple Bird Cherry
• Botanical Name: Prunus padus ‘Colorata’
• Mature Height: 6-8m
• Key Features:
  • Small Tree;
  • Flowering;
  • Bronze Foliage;
  • Wildlife friendly;
  • Easy to grow;
  • Berries;
  • Small garden tree;