What does a cherry wood tree look like? The cherry tree is an evergreen native to many parts of the world and is easily recognizable by its dense clusters of white blossoms and dark, glossy leaves. It’s also a reliable source of delicious cherries, but first, let’s take a closer look at what the tree itself looks like.
Cherry trees typically reach a height of between 15 and 20 feet, with an average spread of 10 to 15 feet. Although they are classified as evergreens, these trees can lose their foliage in cold climates, though they generally maintain a more even canopy year-round in warmer areas.
The leaves on cherry trees are oval-shaped, with a point at the end, and measure in at around 1 to 2 inches in length. They grow in groupings of three or four and are a deep, glossy green, though fall brings a change: the leaves turn a rich red-brown before dropping away for the season.
The branches of cherry wood trees are thin and light, with smooth, grayish bark. Partially hidden within these thin branches, however, is one of the tree’s most unique features: its attractive white flowers. These fragrant clusters of five petals bloom in mid-spring and are a welcome symbol of the coming of Spring.
These white blossoms give way to the tree’s abundant fruit later in the season, cherries which range in color from light-red to dark-purple. The taste of a freshly-picked, ripe cherry is a source of joy for many, and is the hallmark flavor of many classic desserts.
Overall, cherry wood trees are delightful and iconic additions to any garden or yard. Their striking blooms and sweet fruit provide a wealth of delight to the intrepid horticulturalist or aficionado.
Facts about Cherry Wood Trees
The scientific name for the cherry wood tree is Prunus avium: the Latinate word for ‘bird’ (avium) references the fact that birds typically disperse the tree’s fruit. It is a hardy species, and can survive at temperatures as low as -30 Celsius. The tree’s lifespan is relatively short, however, at anywhere between 10 to 15 years.
Cherry wood trees are highly susceptible to disease due to their thin bark and undersized leaves, so select species are typically grown in isolated orchards. As a result of this, farmed cherry fruits are generally of a larger size and sweeter taste than those found in the wild.
The fruit of the cherry tree has been used in a variety of applications over the years, from the production of liqueurs and jams to desserts such as pies and tarts. In some regions, sour cherries are even fermented to make a distinct kind of wine.
Cherry wood is also highly sought after for use in furniture and woodworking. Scientists have even explored the benefits of its wood for use as a biofuel source.
Cultural Significance of the Cherry Tree
Both in the East and the West, cherry trees are revered as a symbol of beauty and Springtime, as indicated by the profusion of cherry blossom festivals celebrated around the globe. Cherry blossoms also feature in a great deal of literature and art, identified as a representation of a transitory beauty.
In Japan, the cherry blossom is closely associated with stories of love and loss. It is believed that the wood of the cherry tree is highly symbolic, representing hope, potential and fidelity. The tree’s life cycle of ripening and blooming before becoming bare again is said to represent life itself.
In the West, there is a long tradition of planting cherry wood trees as tribute to illustrious individuals, particularly soldiers and politicians. The famous English poet, John Keats, remarked about the significance of the cherry wood tree when he wrote, “The cherry wood of England: Life, Love, and Loyalty”.
Pollination of Cherry Trees
Like many fruit-bearing trees, cherry trees need a secondary “helper” species to provide pollination. Honey bees are the primary species responsible for transfer of the cherry tree’s pollen grains. As solitary insects, solitary bees – such as mason bees – also contribute to cherry tree pollination, alongside flies, butterflies, and beetles.
Generally speaking, multiple pollination species are required for a cherry tree to bear fruit; while honey bees can transfer up to 80% of the available pollen, other species contribute the remaining several percent needed to ensure what is termed “cross-pollination”. However, there are some species of cherry trees which are sterile and require cloning to produce any fruit at all.
When the sour cherry is pollinated, it only takes a few days for the tree to produce a new crop of ripe and ready for harvest cherries. Sweet cherries have an even shorter life cycle, and can often be harvested within just days of blooming.
Uses of Cherry Wood Products
The wood of the cherry tree is renowned for its strength, durability and beauty. This makes it a popular choice for using in furniture and other home furnishings, such as cabinets, tables and chests – giving off a warm and welcoming glow.
As well as furniture, cherry wood is also commonly used to make musical instruments, such as guitars and violins. The timber can be carved, stained, varnished and polished to attractive, professional-grade results – adding a lovely aesthetic to any collection of musical instruments.
Elsewhere, cherry wood is used in the creation of various tools; for instance, quality saw blades are often made from high-grade cherry wood due to its rigidity and grain. Similarly, the wood is used to make durable handles for brooms and hoes.
Uses of Cherry Fruits
The fruits of the cherry tree have been used in a variety of applications over the years. Sweet cherries are used almost exclusively for culinary purposes, with the most common form being jams, jellies and preserves – though they can also be frozen or dried for later use. Sour cherries, on the other hand, tend to be more popular in alcohols than in desserts.
In some countries, such as Romania, Greece and Turkey, cherries are made into a kind of liqueur called a ‘rakı’, while in France they’re used to make an aperitif called ‘cerise noire’. In other places, a type of cherry wine is produced – commonly known as kirschwasser.
Cherries are also used in traditional medicine, due to their high nutrient content. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of these fruits have made them a popular choice for treating a variety of ailments, from headaches to joint pain.
Harvesting Cherry Fruits
Most species of cherry wood tree have a brief life cycle and need to be managed if a harvest is desired. Ergo, there are generally two different ways to collect their fruits when ready – by hand or with the aid of a cherry picker.
Cherry-picking can be done from the ground or from a ladder, depending on the height of the tree. However, to get the most out of a single tree’s harvest, a machine known as a cherry picker is usually used. This is a motorized, telescopic ladder with a basket at the top – allowing the operator to easily pick fruits without putting themselves at risk.
No matter how it is done, however, it’s important to note that cherry fruits mature quickly and must be harvested with due haste. Unripe or over-ripe cherries can be tasteless and acrid, so it pays to know when your cherries are due for harvest.
Cherry Tree Preservation
Cherry wood trees, while hardy, are not immune to disease, and may require a bit of extra care to stay healthy and continue to produce fruit year after year. A good start is setting aside a dedicated area, away from any other cherry tree – this will ensure that the disease pressure on the tree is minimal.
Moreover, it is important to ensure that the cherry tree has a consistent source of nutrients, fertilizers and water. In some extreme cases, especially where a more serious disease is present, pesticides may also be necessary.
During the winter months, an extra thick layer of mulch is recommended, to prevent the tree’s shallow roots from becoming frozen. This simple measure can help protect any ground-level pathogens from entering the tree’s wood.
Finally, it’s important to clear away dead foliage from around the tree’s base, as this can provide suitable conditions for pests and fungi to grow. With proper care, a cherry wood tree can thrive and keep bearing fruit for many years to come.
