Tree Identification

(Question)

Is this a native tree to Ontario?

Does it produce berries for birds?

Can it grow in part shade?

(Answer)

This plant appears to be a small native tree or suckering shrub that grows its cylinder of flowers after leafing out in the late spring.  It is called Prunus virginiana, or more commonly known as eastern chokecherry, bitter-berry or virginia bird-cherry.  It typically grows to about 16ft tall.

Its flowers are fragrant and lovely and the plant is a host to various butterflies.  Chokecherry trees bear 3 – 6 inch long creamy white blooms, which become dark red fleshy fruit, maturing into purple black berries with a pit in the center.  This fruit is used to make jams, jellies, syrups and wines.

Read more at Gardening Know How: Chokecherry Planting Instructions: How To Use Chokecherries In The Landscape – see link below:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/chokecherry/chokecherries-in-the-landscape.htm