Botanical profile

North Star Tart Cherry

Latin name
North Star Tart Cherry
Common name
Cherry 'North Star'
Type
Fruit tree
Family
Rosaceae

Prunus cerasus ‘North Star’ is a hardy and very productive dwarf sour cherry tree, well-suited to Quebec conditions where it is appreciated for its dark red, tart cherries, excellent for pies, preserves, jellies, and pastries, while also being appealing for fresh consumption. This cultivar is distinguished by a compact and bushy habit, facilitating cultivation in home orchards, gardens, and small spaces while offering consistent yields. Its white spring blossoms attract pollinators before the appearance of its bright green foliage. ‘North Star’ prefers full sun exposure and well-drained, cool to moist soil, and remains a reliable choice for Quebec gardeners looking for a productive, easy-to-grow variety adapted to our cold winters.

Care guide

Growing conditions

Light, soil, water and hardiness

Hardiness zone
Zone 4 to 8
Exposure
Full sun
Watering
Moderate watering
Fertilization
Apply a balanced organic fertilizer rich in phosphorus and potassium in early spring (March-April). On sandy soil, a second application may be necessary in summer.
Soil type
Fertile, well-drained, loamy or sandy soil.
Minimum temperature
'-34°C
Plant appearance

Blooming, foliage and shape

Blooming period
Late spring (April-May)
Flower color
White
Fruiting
Dark red, tart morello cherries, juicy
Foliage color
Green
Foliage type
Obsolete
Shape
Rounded shape
Garden structure

Size and growth

Height
8–10 ft (2.4–3 m)
Width
8–10 ft (2.4–3 m)
Growth rate
Moderate growth
Vegetable garden and yield

Companion planting, spacing and harvest

Fruit tree type
Cherry
Pet friendly
Safe for pets

Pets

Pollinators
Attracts or supports pollinating insects

Pollinators

Butterflies
Plants that attract butterflies

Butterflies

The availability of our plants varies depending on arrivals, seasons, nursery production and supplier availability. Some varieties may be offered for a limited time only, depending on their natural cycle or current stock. These plant profiles are designed to guide and inspire you when choosing plants for the garden, landscaping projects, containers or long-lasting outdoor arrangements.