An extensive family
There are around 400 species of Cherry, both trees and bushes. The Cherry tree can grow from 49 to 100 feet (15-30 m) tall and have a diameter of up to 4 feet (1.2 m). The bark on young trees is thin and Birch-like but over time it takes on a more cracked appearance, similar to burnt chips. The leaves are scattered and slightly oval with fluted edges. The beautiful and fragrant flowers grow in small groups of around 40.
Cherry is a pitted fruit. The pit sits inside a red to yellowish-red flesh liked by all! Birds often gorge on the berries and spread the Cherry pits for miles around.
Like Birch, Cherry is known as a pioneer tree, growing after storms, forest fires or deforestation.
Natural buffet
Cherry trees are part of the same family as Plum trees and other fruit trees, such as apricots, nectarines and sweet almonds, to name just a few other delicious species. The berries are best eaten raw but they can also be used to make compote, jam or candied for use in cocktails.
Cherry is high in vitamin C and has positive effects on conditions such as gout and skin problems.