Crimson Passion Cherry

Prunus ‘Crimson Passion’

Crimson Passion Cherry is a cold-hardy, dwarf sour cherry variety that produces large, dark red, sweet-tart cherries. Unlike other dwarf sour cherries, it has a higher sugar content, making it ideal for fresh eating, baking, and preserves. It is self-pollinating and thrives in prairie climates (Zone 2-3), making it an excellent choice for Southwest Saskatchewan.

Planting & Location

• Hardiness Zone: 2-7 (cold-hardy and drought-resistant)
• Mature Size: 6-8 feet tall, 5-7 feet wide
• Growth Rate: Moderate (12-18 inches per year)
• Sunlight Needs: Full sun (at least 6 hours per day for best fruiting)
• Soil Preference:
  • Prefers well-drained, loamy soil.
  • Tolerates sandy and clay soils if well-draining.
  • Performs best in slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0-7.0).
• Spacing: 5-7 feet apart for optimal air circulation and fruit production.

Watering

• Young Trees (First 2 Years): Water deeply once per week to establish roots.
• Established Trees: Drought-tolerant; water every 2-3 weeks in dry periods.
• Avoid Overwatering: Does not tolerate soggy soil—ensure good drainage.

Fertilizing

• First Year: No fertilizer needed—focus on root establishment.
• Mature Trees:
  • Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) in early spring.
  • Organic alternative: Compost or well-rotted manure in spring.
  • Avoid excessive nitrogen, which encourages leafy growth over fruiting.

Pollination & Fruit Production

• Self-Pollinating: Does not require another cherry tree to set fruit.
• Fruit Size: Large, 4-5g cherries, sweeter than other dwarf sour cherries.
• Harvest Time: Mid to late July (depending on the season).
• Yield: 15-20 lbs per tree when mature.

Pruning & Maintenance

• Best Time to Prune: Late winter to early spring, before new growth.
• How to Prune:
  • Remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches to improve airflow.
  • Maintain an open center or vase shape for better sun exposure.
  • Minimal pruning required compared to other cherry varieties.

Pest & Disease Management

Common Pests:

• Aphids – Sap-sucking insects that cause curled leaves.
  • Solution: Spray with insecticidal soap or introduce ladybugs.
• Cherry Fruit Fly – Lays eggs inside cherries, causing maggots.
  • Solution: Use sticky traps and pick up fallen fruit.
• Birds – Love ripe cherries!
  • Solution: Use netting to protect ripening fruit.

Common Diseases:

• Brown Rot – Fungal disease causing rotted fruit.
  • Solution: Remove infected fruit and apply fungicide if needed.
• Powdery Mildew – White fungal growth on leaves.
  • Solution: Improve airflow and apply sulfur-based fungicides.
• Canker (Bacterial or Fungal) – Causes sunken lesions on branches.
  • Solution: Prune out infected branches and apply copper spray.

Winter Protection

• Young Trees: Protect with burlap or tree wraps in extreme cold or exposed areas.
• Mulching: Apply 2-4 inches of mulch around the base (not touching the trunk) to insulate roots.
• Rodents & Rabbits: Use tree guards to prevent bark damage in winter.

Landscape Uses

Perfect for small yards & urban gardens
Great for fresh eating, baking, and preserves
Self-pollinating—no second tree needed
Cold-hardy & drought-resistant once established
Attracts pollinators and provides seasonal interest

Additional Notes:

• Crimson Passion Cherry is part of the University of Saskatchewan’s dwarf sour cherry breeding program, making it highly adapted to prairie climates.
• Lifespan: 20-30 years with proper care.
• Works well in hedgerows, container plantings, and mixed fruit orchards.

Photo courtesy of Jeffries Nurseries