tree growing in backyard

(Question)

This tree started to grow in my backyard last year. If it is an invasive species, (native or non-native), I would like to remove it. Could you please advise? Thanks!

(Answer)

Thank you for contacting the Toronto Master Gardeners. I can’t be sure from your photo but I think this plant is Common chokecherry, either Canada Red common chokecherry (Prunus virginiana ‘Canada Red’) or Schubert common chokecherry (Prunus virginiana ‘Schubert’). This is a native plant in Ontario, as well as most of eastern Canada and most of the US. It is not invasive, however it is on the weed list provided by the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA). Common chokecherry is a large shrub or small deciduous tree that grows to about 20 feet tall. It suckers, but these can be promptly removed to manage its spread. It is susceptible to a large number of insects and diseases. More information about common chokecherry here.