Can You Eat Ornamental Cherry Tree Fruit?
The ornamental cherry tree (Prunus serrulata) native to China and Japan is one of the most popular flowering plant specimens in gardens around the world. The main characteristics of ornamental cherry trees are their showy, pink-white blossoms in spring. Many gardeners may, however, be unaware that the ornamental cherry tree is also a delicious and abundant fruit producer. Can you eat ornamental cherry tree fruit? Yes, you can! Read on to learn more about the properties, nutrition, and uses of ornamental cherry tree fruit.
To begin, though ornamental cherry tree fruit and common cherry tree fruit look similar, the two are actually not related. The fruit of the ornamental cherry tree is longer and tarter than that of the common cherry tree. Ornamental cherry tree fruit also possess different nutritional profiles, with a special emphasis on vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. In particular, ornamental cherry tree fruit are rich in vitamins A, C, and E, minerals such as magnesium and iron, fiber, and antioxidants. These nutrients protect our bodies from illness, boost the immune system, and support our physical and mental health.
In terms of applications, ornamental cherry tree fruit can be made into a variety of forms, including preserves, jellies, and jams. They can also be used to make compotes, chutneys, and many types of drinks. Some areas where the ornamental cherry tree grows may have preservation methods that have been passed down through generations, such as pickling or fermenting. For example, in Japan, ornamental cherry tree fruit is used to make a traditional vinegar-based pickle called harbaizuke.
In terms of safety, as with any fruit or food, you should practice basic due diligence when consuming ornamental cherry tree fruit. If the fruit is old, spoilt, or has been in contact with poor soil quality, it is unlikely to be suitable for human consumption. Before ingesting, individuals should make sure the fruit is not too bitter or acidic, and it’s a good practice to wash the fruit thoroughly before eating. Some ornamental cherry tree fruit may also contain allergens, so if you experience any adverse reactions, it’s best to delay further consumption of this particular fruit.
In conclusion, yes you can eat ornamental cherry tree fruit, but it’s important to exercise caution. The fruit is a rich source of vitamins and minerals, as well as antioxidants, which help promote overall health. It can also be processed into a variety of food forms, including marmalades, jams, and chutneys. When considering ornamental cherry tree fruit, it’s important to make sure you’re eating them while they are fresh, and practice basic hygiene.
Uses of Ornamental Cherry Tree Fruit
Apart from eating fresh, ornamental cherry tree fruit can be used in a variety of ways. For instance, the seeds of ornamental cherry tree fruits can be roasted and eaten as a snack, or made into a porridge. The flesh of the fruits can be dried and ground into flour, or put through a juicer to make a nutritious juice. The leaves of ornamental cherry trees can also be used in tea blends, imparting a pleasant and tangy flavour.
Ornamental cherry tree fruits are also edible for a range of higher forms of life, sometimes even serving as a main source of nutrition. For example, many birds are attracted to ornamental cherry tree fruits for their sweet and sour taste, and some species of bees and butterflies rely entirely on the nectar from their flowers.
Beyond nutrition, ornamental cherry tree fruits can also be used in crafts, such as homemade potpourris and centrepieces, as well as traditional Asian ink painting. Depending on the region, they may also be used as a dye for specific items, such as fabric and paper.
Though originally native to China and Japan, the ornamental cherry tree is now found growing in many other climates around the world, especially in temperate regions. As a result, the various uses of the ornamental cherry tree have been adapted in various ways in multiple cultures. For instance, in some parts of China and Japan, ceremonially dyed fabrics with ornamental cherry tree patterns are given as gifts to guests in homes during the flowering season.
How To Grow Ornamental Cherry Trees
To grow ornamental cherry trees, the traditional agricultural process involves more than simply planting the seeds in a pot. Before planting, prepare the soil in a part of your garden that gets plenty of sunshine. The soil should be well drained and slightly acid, so that it can hold and release water and nutrients as needed. When adding fertiliser, use only organic kinds, such as compost and manure.
Once the soil is ready, it’s time to plant the tree. First, dig a hole the same size as the pot the seedling came in, and water to create a hole. Next, take the seedling out and place the root ball in the hole, then cover the soil and press down gently to make sure the seedling is securely in place. Finally, water the seedling every couple of days and keep an eye out for pests. Although some pests may damage your tree, they may also act as a form of pest control. In other words, they may keep larger, more damaging pests away.
To maximize growth and fruit production, it’s important to prune and shape ornamental cherry trees. This usually involves trimming branches and leaves to promote the desired branch and foliage shape. Pruning also helps to increase air circulation and will cause the tree to grow more leaves and fruit, although it can be tricky to master. Always remember to use sharp shears and sterilize them after each use.
Harvesting & Storing Ornamental Cherry Tree Fruit
The harvesting period for ornamental cherry trees is between April and May, with the exact time varying depending on geographic region. When harvesting, take care not to damage the branches and leaves. To maximize yields, it’s important to check for signs of pests or disease, as well as removing any rotten fruit. If you find any, discard them in a safe place, away from the rest of your tree.
Once the ornamental cherry tree fruit has been harvested, it can be stored in a variety of ways. For instance, fruits can be dried, frozen, canned, or pasteurized to extend the shelf life. It’s best to consume the fruit within a few days of harvest, but if you need it to last longer, preserving the fruit will help retain its nutrients and flavours. Keeping the ornamental cherry tree fruit in an airtight container will also help maintain its freshness.
Conclusion
In conclusion, ornamental cherry tree fruit can be eaten and they provide many vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that can be beneficial to our health. Apart from eating fresh, ornamental cherry tree fruits can also be used to make preserves, jellies, and other food items. They can also be used in crafts, or as a source of nutrition for other higher forms of life. Ornamental cherry trees must be properly cared for in order to produce maximum yields, and the fruit should be harvested, stored and consumed with caution.
Benefits of Ornamental Cherry Tree Fruit
Apart from its culinary value, ornamental cherry tree fruit also offers a wealth of health benefits. For example, the vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants found in ornamental cherry tree fruits can help boost the immune system, protect the body from illness, and support overall health and wellbeing. The fibre content of the fruit can also aid digestion and regulate blood sugar. It can also reduce LDL cholesterol, help reduce the risk of heart disease, and provide energy to the body.
Other health benefits of ornamental cherry tree fruit include its ability to boost mental health, improve cognitive performance, enhance concentration, provide antioxidant protection, and aid joint health. The flavonoid content of the fruit can also help reduce inflammation and protect the skin from harmful UV rays, as well as improve wound healing and reduce the risk of bacterial infections.
Ornamental cherry tree fruit can also be used cosmetically. For instance, the oil of the fruit can be used in products for skin care, such as soaps and ointments, or in hair treatments to improve shine and strength. Its essential oils can also promote relaxation and reduce stress levels, as well as its extract can be used to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and age spots.
Health Risks of Eating Ornamental Cherry Tree Fruit
If eaten in moderation, ornamental cherry tree fruit are generally safe to eat. However, eating too much in one sitting can cause digestive distress, such as diarrhoea and stomach pain, due to its high levels of vitamin C. Additionally, some varieties of ornamental cherry tree tree fruits contain oxalates, which can block the absorption of certain important minerals, such as calcium. Lastly, some people may be allergic to the plant’s pollen, so care should be taken when eating the fruit near trees that are in bloom.
For individuals with diabetes, the consumption of ornamental cherry tree fruit can also be potentially harmful, as these fruits contain natural sugars that may cause spikes in blood sugar levels. It is important for these individuals to speak to their health professional first before eating ornamental cherry tree fruits.
Furthermore, although the nutritional profile of ornamental cherry tree fruits may provide some health benefits, they should always form just one part of a healthy, varied diet. It is always recommended to consult a doctor or nutritionist before drastically changing eating habits.
Non-Nutritional Uses of Ornamental Cherry Tree Fruit
Aside from its nutritional value, there are also non-nutritional uses of ornamental cherry tree fruits. For example, it’s thought that the extract of the ornamental cherry tree fruit can be used to dye fabrics, as it’s able to provide a light pink colour. Moreover, the leaves and petals of the ornamental cherry trees can be used as a natural insect repellant. Lastly, the juice from the fruits can be used to make homemade wine and cordials.
Ornamental cherry tree fruits, as well as the leaves and bark, are also used for their medicinal properties. For instance, the bark of ornamental cherry trees can be made in tea to treat menstrual cramps, while the flowers and fruits can be boiled into decoctions to aid general health and wellbeing. Some of the other medicinal applications include treating colds, headaches, arthritis, reducing plaque on the teeth, and application to the eyes to reduce redness.
Ornamental cherry tree fruits also play an important roles in cultural ceremonies and traditions. In Japan, for instance, the cherry blossom is seen as a symbol of renewal, and the ornamental cherry tree fruits are believed to signify peace and joy. In Korea, the kite made from the flowers and fruits of the ornamental cherry tree is believed to bring luck and prosperity.
