Nanking Cherry Tree Seeds

Nanking Cherry (Prunus tomentosa) is a hardy, fast-growing fruiting shrub prized for its beautiful spring blossoms, bright red edible cherries, and exceptional cold tolerance. Native to Asia, this ornamental fruiting shrub produces masses of fragrant white to pale pink flowers before the foliage emerges, followed by sweet-tart cherries that are excellent for fresh eating, jams, jellies, pies, and wildlife. Its dense branching habit also makes it an outstanding hedge, windbreak, or natural privacy screen while providing year-round landscape interest.

Botanical Information

• Botanical Name: Prunus tomentosa
• Common Name: Nanking Cherry
• Plant Type: Deciduous fruiting shrub
• Germination Rate: 50–70%
• Mature Height: 6–10 feet
• Mature Spread: 8–15 feet
• Growth Rate: Fast
• Hardiness Zones: 2–7
• Native Range: China, Korea, and Mongolia
• Light Requirements: Full sun
• Soil Preference: Well-drained sandy, loamy, or average garden soils
• Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.5)

Germination Instructions

Nanking Cherry seeds require 90 days of cold moist stratification before planting.

1. Mix the seeds with a moist growing medium such as peat moss or vermiculite.
2. Place the mixture into a sealed plastic bag or container and refrigerate at 34–41°F (1–5°C) for approximately 90 days.
3. After stratification, sow the seeds approximately ¼ inch deep in a quality seed-starting mix.
4. Keep the growing medium consistently moist but not waterlogged.
5. Place containers in a warm, bright location or under grow lights until germination begins.

Growing Information

• Thrives in full sun for the highest flower and fruit production.
• Prefers fertile, well-drained soil but adapts to many soil types.
• Very cold hardy and tolerant of harsh winter climates.
• Drought tolerant once established.
• Produces fragrant white to pale pink blossoms in early spring before the leaves appear.
• Bright red cherries ripen in early to mid-summer and are enjoyed by both people and birds.
• Makes an excellent hedge, wildlife planting, edible landscape shrub, or erosion control planting.
• Plant two or more shrubs nearby for improved cross-pollination and heavier fruit production.
• Benefits from occasional pruning after fruiting to maintain shape and encourage vigorous growth.

Seed Quantities Available

• 1 oz. - 282 Seeds
• 1/4 lb. - 1,128 Seeds
• 1 lb. - 4,512 Seeds