Botanical profile

Prunus cerasus 'Stella'

Latin name
Prunus avium ‘Stella’
Common name
Cherry 'Stella'
Type
Fruit tree
Family
Rosaceae

Prunus avium ‘Stella’ is a self-fertile sweet cherry tree well adapted to temperate climates. It can be successfully grown in Quebec in zone 5, provided it benefits from a microclimate protected from cold winds and good sun exposure. Famous for being one of the first self-fertile sweet cherry varieties, it produces large, firm, and sweet dark red fruits, highly prized for fresh consumption, desserts, and homemade preserves. The ‘Stella’ variety is distinguished by its white blossoms in spring, its green foliage turning yellow in autumn, and its ease of cultivation. With an ovoid to slightly rounded habit, its development remains moderate, making it suitable for family orchards or large sunny gardens. As its fruits are highly coveted by birds, using a protective net can be helpful.

Care guide

Growing conditions

Light, soil, water and hardiness

Hardiness zone
Zone 5 to 9
Exposure
Sun
Watering
Regular to moderate
Fertilization
Balanced spring salad
Soil type
Well-drained, cool to moist
Minimum temperature
-26 °F
Plant appearance

Blooming, foliage and shape

Blooming period
Spring
Flower color
White (spring)
Fruiting
Large, dark red, sweet, and firm fruits
Foliage color
Green → yellow (autumn)
Foliage type
Obsolete
Shape
Ovoid / rounded
Garden structure

Size and growth

Height
3–4 m (10–13 ft)
Width
10 ft (3 m)
Growth rate
Moderate
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.