Prunus x kerrasis ‘Valentine' (early-season) (self-fertile)

Valentine Cherry Tree is a small deciduous tree (grows to 12 feet tall) that is grown for its edible fruits, and lovely clusters of large, white, spring flowers. This hardy cherry tree has a pleasing oval form, with a spread of up to 6 feet. It has a low canopy with a typical clearance of 3 feet from the ground and is suitable for planting under power lines. Foliage is oval, and glossy. It turns from green to yellow and orange in the fall. Prunus x kerrasis ‘Valentine' grows at a medium rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for 40 years or more. This is a self-pollinating variety, so it doesn't require a second plant nearby to set fruit.

Early-fruiting variety, Valentine Cherries ripen between late July and mid August. It produces tart, firm, round fruit with medium red flesh and skin. 'Valentine' fruit colour is the brightest among all the dwarf sour cherry varieties bred by the University of Saskatchewan. Each fruit weighs approximately 4.5 grams in average, and with a Brix of 16°. This isn't the sweestest variety, so not necessary the best for eating fresh. However, it has a very good yield. Valentine Cherries are great for baking, making preserves, drying and canning.

While 'Valentine' isn't the first to set fruit ('Carmine jewel' is), it is the first dwarf sour cherry variety of the University of Saskatcheewan to bloom in the spring.

Use Valentine Dwarf Sour Cherry Tree in orchards or in the landscape as a specimen, hedge, or in pollinator gardens. It is not particular as to soil type, and is highly tolerant of urban pollution. However, grow it in full sun. Hardy to Zone 2a.