Pin Cherry
Prunus pensylvanica
pisimohkan-minahtik(Cree)
A pioneering species that rapidly colonizes disturbed ground and burn sites. Seeds can remain viable in the forest seedbank for 50+ years, waiting for fire or disturbance to open the canopy. Small bright-red cherries beloved by songbirds and historically used by Indigenous peoples and settlers for jelly and syrup. Note: leaves, bark, and pits contain cyanogenic glycosides — toxic to livestock and pets. Ripe fruit flesh is safe.
Quick Facts
Distribution
Boreal Forest, Parkland, Zone 2
Light
Full sun
Bloom Time
August (cherries)
Soil
Adaptable — tolerates poor soil, disturbed ground, burn sites
Water
Moderate; drought-tolerant once established
Growing & Cultivation
Propagation
Seed requires 90–150 days cold moist stratification after acid scarification. Root suckers from established trees transplant readily in spring. Short-lived (15–30 years) but self-replacing.
Always verify plant identification with multiple sources before consuming any wild plant. This information is for educational purposes only.
