Are Shubert Black Cherries Poisinous? I bought a black Shubert cherry tree last year, and this is...
I bought a black Shubert cherry tree last year, and this is the first time this tree has beared fruit. ( tree have red leaves) These cherries are black, and are no bigger than a pea. I was also wondering if they are not poisinous can you make preserve out of them.
Answers: Canada Red Chokecherry (Prunus virginiana 'Schubert')can be grown as is a pyrimdal tree that grows 20-30 feet in distance from the ground, or a shrub. It is hardy to zone 3, has moderate water desires, and prefers full sun and well-drained soil. This tree is susceptible to black know disease which may disfigure many of the branches. Suckering may be a problem.
Foliage emerges as bright green but turns purplish for most of the summer. Leaves are 2 to 5 inches long, alternate, simple, and oblong to nearly oval next to finely serrated margins. Fall color is orange and red.
Flowers are white, borne in loose, 3 to 6 inch-long terminal racemes surrounded by spring.
Fruit is a dark red, turning to purple drupe, 1/3 inch in diameter, that mature from July to October. Although very astringent, it can be used in sauces, jellies and preserves. Fruits are attractive to wildlife.