CAPULIN CHERRY

Frank Vincentz – CC BY-SA 3.0 – Wikimedia Commons
Ryan Hodnett – CC BY-SA 4.0 – Wikimedia Commons

General Info – Capulin Cherry, Wild Black Cherry

The Capulin Cherry, a member of the Prunus family, is indigenous to the Highlands of Mexico and holds the affection of birds, earning it the moniker “Mexican Bird Cherry.” Resembling a miniature Sweet Cherry, it grows up to 2cm in size, maturing to a deep purple hue with a single seed. The sweet and flavorful pulp makes it ideal for crafting preserves and jams. Notably, Capulin Cherry seedlings bear fruit within just three years of planting, eliminating the need for a prolonged wait to savour their fruits. Whether enjoyed as a hand-snack or transformed into juices, preserves, or pies, the Capulin Cherry is a versatile ingredient.
Trees can attain heights of up to 25m, featuring an umbrella shape and a semi-deciduous form. With vigorous growth and hardiness typical of the Prunus family, they boast beautifully characteristic flowers. Positioned as a subtropical cherry, Capulin Cherries thrive in climates where Sweet Cherries struggle to accumulate sufficient chill hours.
Capulin Cherry plants display tolerance for both full shade and partial sun, though partial shade may be advantageous in hot summer climates. Container cultivation is unsuitable due to their shallow roots, which are susceptible to damage. Capulin Cherries flourish in fertile, moist soils, although excessive nitrogen should be avoided. A vigorous and attractive alternative to Sweet Cherries in subtropical climates, Capulin Cherries are a stand out option.

Plant Profile/Properties

Latin NamePrunus Serotina
Place of OriginSubtropical South America
PropagationSeedling, Cutting, Grafting
Deciduous/EvergreenPartly Deciduous
Pollination (info)2 Required
Average Max Height15m
Average Time to Fruiting2-4 Years
Harvest PeriodFebruary, March
Growth RateHigh
Chill Hours (info)N/A
Cultivars/Varieties in AustraliaN/A
Dwarfing VarietiesNo
Preferred Climate(s) (info)Subtropical, Warm Temperate
Marginal Climate(s)Arid, Cool Temperate
Cold Tolerance when Mature (info)Medium (-6)
Rainfall (info)Low – Medium
Pot SuitabilityNo
Sun/Shade ToleranceFull Sun
Preferred Soil (info)Good-Perfect Drainage
Preferred PH (info)Slightly Acid to Neutral (5.5-7.5)
Drought ToleranceMedium
Wind Tolerance (info)Low
Salt Tolerance (info)No
Pests & DiseasesNo notable pests

Where to Purchase – Online Nurseries (Australia Only)

NurseryDaleys
Capulin Cherry – CuttingLink
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