Prunus Padus Colorata Bird Cherry Tree

Prunus Padus Colorata, commonly known as Bird Cherry Colorata is a ‘pretty in pink’ ornamental bird cherry tree with plenty of colour and character having with deep purple shoots, red-purple young leaves, pink blossom and dark fruits. Our specimens are shaped as full standard trees on long clear stems. 

In spring this deciduous bird cherry variety produces new stems and foliage flushed a fresh red-purple. The leaves are veined and ovate with smooth edges which turn deep green with purple undersides in summer. The baby pink blossom arrives in late April. Blossom hangs in swaying racemes over 12cms in length. Each raceme is made from individual blossoms with five pink petals and a yellowy-pink centre. Pollinators adore bird cherry blossom and this small tree is smothered with bees and butterflies on sunny days.

When blooms have finished small black fruits appear that are popular with wildlife, in particular blackbirds enjoy them. Then, in autumn, its deep green foliage turns a shade of dark red before falling to reveal a lightly textured grey trunk and branches that reach towards the sky.

Height and Width of Prunus Padus Colorata
It has a narrow, upright canopy that fits into all garden sizes and themes. In perfect growing conditions of moist but well-drained fertile soil, this tree will reach a maximum height of 8-12 metres with a 4-8 metre spread within 20-50 years. It can be kept smaller by pruning or in less ideal growing conditions.

How Hardy Is Prunus Padus Colorata
Bird cherries are extremely hardy despite their delicate floral appearance. Prunus Padus Colorata will survive sub-zero winters across Europe if kept from waterlogged conditions.

How To Use Prunus Padus Colorata
This tree is best used as an ornamental flowering tree near a window, so you can admire its springtime blooms. Wildlife gardens benefit from Bird Cherry Colorada and it fits into a compact space. The canopy doesn’t cast a deep shade meaning you can plant beneath it. Colorata is one of the best bird cherry cultivars for urban planting as its pollution tolerant.

How To Care for Prunus Padus Colorata
This is a tough, low maintenance highly colourful tree that takes care of itself. Bird Cherry Colorata will grow in all soils including chalky conditions, so it is a good choice for less than ideal locations. If you have poor soil fill the planting hole with compost and place a thick layer of mulch around the roots in spring to ensure the best flower display. If you want to shape this ornamental cherry prune it in winter, but it does not require regular pruning.

If you only have room for one tree, and you are looking for something hardy but spectacular, Colorata is a top choice. It is low maintenance, looks breathtaking in its spring coat and doesn’t take up a lot of room.