Prunus prostrata Seeds | Mountain Cherry
LATIN NAME: Prunus prostrata
COMMON NAME: Mountain Cherry, Prostrate Cherry
Plant Profile
Among the ornamental and useful plants raised from seed, Mountain Cherry (Prunus prostrata) stands out as a low, spreading, deciduous shrub in the rose family (Rosaceae), native to rocky slopes and mountains of the Mediterranean and the western Asia, while it has been cultivated in rock gardens for its habit. In combination, these characteristics make a persuasive case for growing it.
Science & Biotechnology
As part of the rose family, Prunus prostrata contributes to research on plant classification and adaptation, while nurseries and gardeners continue to trial it for cultivation. Mountain cherry has a real and distinguished place in research. In the laboratory and trial ground alike, it serves as workable material for propagation research and line selection.
Uses & Benefits
Mountain Cherry works well in borders, containers and dedicated beds. Its flowers feed bees and pollinating insects of mountains, and its low, spreading habit gives a fine presence in rock garden and alpine bed, while its sour cherries are eaten by birds and small animals. To raise mountain cherry, sow seeds in pots of moist, open soil in a cool, bright place, keep them gently watered, and grow little shrubs on in the sun. It takes hold quickly and asks for no special treatment from then on.
The rose family’s great fruit genus gives plums, cherries, peaches, apricots and almonds, all carotenoid- and polyphenol-rich; in Chinese medicine the kernels and fruits, from Xing Ren for coughs to Yu Li Ren for regularity, are classical herbs, always processed to manage their cyanogenic compounds.
Growing from Seed
Starting Mountain Cherry from seed is simple and satisfying. A simple routine works well: sow evenly over the surface and cover lightly in a loose, well-drained seed compost, maintain even moisture, and provide bright light. The seed responds well to a cool, moist stratification period, which helps it break dormancy evenly. Shift the seedlings into small pots as soon as they can be handled, and give them bright light until planting-out time.
Our Take
Mountain Cherry, Prostrate Cherry earns its space through character rather than fuss. It grows as a low, spreading, deciduous shrub, so its place in the garden is easy to plan. It tolerates the sort of small mistakes every beginner makes.
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