Botanical profile

Prunus cerasus 'Ulster'

Latin name
Prunus cerasus ‘Ulster’
Common name
‘Ulster’ Cherry
Type
Fruit tree
Family
Rosaceae

Prunus cerasus ‘Ulster’ is a vigorous and hardy sour cherry tree, well-suited to Quebec's horticultural conditions, offering a generous production of dark red to black-red sour cherries with a tart, Morello-type flavor, perfect for pies, jams, juices, and preserves, while also being appealing for fresh consumption for those who enjoy tart fruits. This cultivar is distinguished by its vigorous, rounded habit, ideal for family orchards, large gardens, or productive plantings. Its white spring blossoms attract pollinators before the appearance of shiny green foliage, which adds an ornamental touch to the landscape. ‘Ulster’ is self-fertile, but the presence of a second compatible cherry tree can improve pollination and yield. It prefers full sun exposure and well-drained soil, neutral to slightly alkaline, and shows good tolerance to Quebec's harsh winters when planted in a protected zone 4b or zone 5.

Care guide

Growing conditions

Light, soil, water and hardiness

Hardiness zone
Zone 4b–6
Exposure
Sun
Watering
Regular to moderate
Fertilization
Balanced spring salad
Soil type
Neutral to slightly alkaline, well-drained, cool
Minimum temperature
-31 °F
Plant appearance

Blooming, foliage and shape

Blooming period
Spring
Flower color
White (spring)
Fruiting
Dark red to blackish red, tart cherry type, juicy
Foliage color
Green (Spring–Summer)
Foliage type
Obsolete
Shape
Rounded / vigorous
Garden structure

Size and growth

Height
3–6 m (10–20 ft)
Width
3–6 m (10–20 ft)
Growth rate
Moderate to vigorous
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.