Chokecherry for the Black Hills
A Hardy Native Favorite with Flowers, Fruit, and Fall Color
Chokecherries are quintessential Black Hills plants, beloved for their rugged resilience, beautiful spring flowers, and versatile fruit. These tough, native plants handle our climate with ease and provide food and habitat for local wildlife. We offer both the classic native and a dramatic, colorful cultivar.
Meet Our Hardy Chokecherry Varieties
| Attribute | Common Chokecherry (Prunus virginiana) | ‘Schubert’ Chokecherry (P. virginiana ‘Schubert’) |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Large Shrub/Small Tree (Native) | Small Tree/Large Shrub (Cultivar) |
| Mature Size (H x W) | 10–20 ft. x 6–15 ft. | 15–25 ft. x 15–20 ft. |
| Foliage Color | Green all season | Green in spring, turns deep purple/burgundy in summer/fall |
| Flowers | White, hanging clusters (racemes) | White, hanging clusters (racemes) |
| Fruit | Dark red to black, tart (edible) | Dark red to black, slightly sweeter (edible) |
| Hardiness (SD) | USDA Zones 2–7 (Extremely Hardy) | USDA Zones 2–7 (Extremely Hardy) |
| Key Use | Native plantings, natural screens, habitat | Specimen tree, ornamental accent, striking purple color |
Why These Plants Thrive in the Black Hills:
Both types of Chokecherry are perfectly adapted to South Dakota. They handle cold winters, dry summers, and a wide range of soils. They are low-maintenance, reliable performers in our region.
Grower’s Tips & Features:
- Sun Needs: Both thrive in full sun for best growth and fruit production.
- Fruit Uses: The tart fruit is perfect for jams, jellies, syrups, and wine.
- Wildlife: The fruit is a major food source for local birds and mammals.
- Adaptability: They tolerate a wide range of soils, including rocky or clay conditions typical of the Black Hills.
Which Chokecherry is Right for Your Black Hills Garden?
- Choose Common Chokecherry if: You want a versatile, native shrub for naturalized areas, habitat restoration, or general screening.
- Choose ‘Schubert’ if: You want a visually striking ornamental tree with unique burgundy foliage all summer long, providing a dramatic accent point in your landscape.
Find the perfect chokecherry to add beauty, resilience, and function to your Black Hills landscape today!