Prunus 'Valentine'
Overview
Uses: edible landscape plantings, backyard orchards, fruit gardens, mixed hedgerows, pollinator gardens, small-space plantings
Benefits: cold-hardy shrub cherry bred for northern climates, productive deep red fruit with classic tart cherry flavor, compact shrub form easier to manage than standard cherry trees, spring blossoms that support pollinators, ornamental value combined with edible harvest
USDA Hardiness Zones: 2–7
Sun: Full Sun
Life Cycle: Deciduous Shrub
Growth Habit: Upright, Rounded — multi-stemmed shrub forming a dense fruiting canopy.
Bloom Color: White
Mature Height: 6–8 ft.
Mature Width: 5–6 ft.
Bloom Season: Mid Spring
Growth Rate: Moderate
Summary
A hardy shrub cherry that delivers spring blossoms followed by rich tart cherries for the kitchen.
Prunus 'Valentine' is a productive shrub cherry valued for its cold tolerance and flavorful deep red fruit. In mid spring, clusters of white blossoms cover the branches, drawing pollinators and adding ornamental interest before the developing fruit begins to form.
By summer, the plant produces medium-sized tart cherries with a classic bright flavor that works well in pies, preserves, sauces, and baking. Unlike traditional cherry trees, 'Valentine' grows as a compact multi-stemmed shrub, making it easier to grow and harvest in backyard fruit gardens or edible landscapes.
Its manageable size, reliable fruiting, and exceptional cold hardiness make it a practical choice for gardeners who want productive cherry plants without the size and maintenance of a full orchard tree.
Care
Valentine Cherry Care
Plant in full sun for the best flowering and fruit production. Shrub cherries perform best with at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight each day.
Provide well-drained soil and water regularly while the plant becomes established. Once rooted, the plant tolerates typical garden soils but benefits from consistent moisture during fruit development.
Pruning needs are minimal. Remove damaged or crowded stems during late winter to maintain good airflow and encourage healthy growth. Light thinning can also help maintain a balanced shrub structure.
If desired, apply a light feeding of slow release fertilizer in spring to support steady growth and fruit production.
Size
What Size is Valentine Cherry for Sale Online?
Plants ship in a greenhouse-grade grow pot and are appropriately sized for their container at the time of shipment. If you have specific sizing or planting questions, please contact us.
How Large Does Valentine Cherry Grow?
At maturity, 'Valentine' typically reaches about 6–8 feet tall and around 5–6 feet wide. The shrub develops a dense, upright form that stays more compact than traditional cherry trees, making it easier to manage in home fruit gardens.
Additional Information
What are some common names for this plant?
This plant is commonly called Valentine cherry, shrub cherry, or Romance Series cherry.
What is the Romance Series of shrub cherries?
'Valentine' is part of the Romance Series® of cold-hardy shrub cherries developed by the University of Saskatchewan breeding program. These cherries were bred specifically for extreme cold tolerance, compact shrub growth, and dependable fruit production in northern climates where traditional cherry trees often struggle.
Does Valentine cherry produce edible fruit?
Yes. The shrub produces deep red tart cherries that ripen in summer after the spring bloom period.
What do Valentine cherries taste like and how are they used?
The fruit has a bright tart cherry flavor that becomes richer as the cherries fully ripen. They are especially well suited for pies, cobblers, jams, sauces, and other baking uses where traditional tart cherries are preferred.
Does Valentine cherry require a pollinator?
'Valentine' is considered self-fertile, meaning it can produce fruit on its own. However, planting multiple shrub cherries nearby can sometimes improve fruit set and overall yields.
Where does Valentine cherry fit best in the landscape?
This shrub works well in backyard fruit gardens, edible landscapes, and mixed plantings with other fruit-bearing shrubs. Explore more edible plants in our Berries, Fruit Trees, and Fruit & Vegetable Plants collections.
