Botanical profile

Prunus avium 'Rainier'

Latin name
Prunus cerasus Rainier
Common name
'Rainier' Cherry
Type
Fruit tree
Family
Rosaceae

Prunus avium ‘Rainier’ is a premium sweet cherry tree highly prized for its large, yellow and red bicolor fruits, exceptionally fragrant and melting, offering a sweet and juicy flavor reminiscent of high-quality commercial cherries. Although it is less hardy than some sour cherry varieties, ‘Rainier’ can produce **beautiful harvests in Quebec's Zone 5 when it benefits from full sun exposure, neutral, fresh, well-drained soil, and good protection against cold winds, especially in urban environments or in a sheltered microclimate. It features white blossoms in spring that attract pollinators and bright green foliage. As it is self-sterile, the presence of a second compatible sweet cherry tree is recommended to optimize fruit production. ‘Rainier’ combines exceptional taste quality and ornamental charm, making it a sought-after choice for family orchards and large gardens suited to the Quebec climate.

Care guide

Growing conditions

Light, soil, water and hardiness

Hardiness zone
Zone 5 to 8
Exposure
Full sun
Watering
Regular 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
'-26°C
Plant appearance

Blooming, foliage and shape

Blooming period
Late spring (April-May)
Flower color
White
Fruiting
Large bicolored yellow and red fruits, sweet, juicy and fragrant
Foliage color
Green
Foliage type
Obsolete
Shape
Rounded shape
Garden structure

Size and growth

Height
15–20 ft (4.5–6 m)
Width
15–20 ft (4.5–6 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.