Bird Cherry

Did you know

• In Scandinavian folklore, the blooming of bird cherry marks the true start of spring and planting season.
• The small black fruits are extremely bitter to humans but beloved by thrushes and other birds.
• Bird cherry bark contains amygdalin, which releases hydrogen cyanide and gives the wood a bitter almond smell.
• In Russia, bird cherry blossoming is so culturally significant that a sudden cold snap in May is called 'bird cherry cold.'
• The wood was traditionally used to make walking sticks and tool handles due to its fine, hard grain.

Color meanings

Uses

• ornamental tree
• wildlife food source
• traditional woodcraft