Prunus cerasus Semperflorens - Morello Cherry Tree

Prunus cerasus Semperflorens is a highly productive variety with a perpetual flowering period that lasts from July to October. The fruit is a medium-sized drupe, measuring 2 to 2.5 cm (1in) in diameter, with a round shape and a thin, shiny red skin. Its translucent, reddish-pink flesh surrounds a round stone. This Morello cherry has soft, juicy pulp that is highly fragrant, slightly sweet, and notably tart when fully ripe, offering numerous culinary uses. The fruits can be consumed or processed immediately after being picked. The fruiting is abundant in July and August, but it can vary greatly depending on the climatic conditions and the region during September and October. Its good cold resistance and ability to grow in all types of soils, except overly clayey ones, make the Morello cherry suitable for cultivation in all regions. The fruits of this variety are highly resistant to cherry flies and rarely attacked by birds.

Prunus cerasus belongs to the Rosaceae family, just like the Sweet Cherry (Prunus avium). Also known as the Sour Cherry or Acid Cherry, it originates from Asia Minor and has been widely grown in Europe since ancient times. 

Prunus cerasus Semperflorens, also known as the Saint-Martin Cherry, All Saints' Cherry, or Late Cherry, is a very old variety with somewhat uncertain origins. This cherry tree forms a small, semi-erect tree that spreads with age, reaching approximately 4 to 5 metres (13 to 16 feet) high and 3 to 4 metres (10 to 13 feet) wide when fully grown. It produces numerous trailing branches. The reddish wood is a characteristic feature of the cherry tree family. Its habit is well suited for free-form shapes on half-standards or low goblet shapes. The deciduous foliage consists of large, alternate, obovate leaves with irregularly toothed edges. They are a shiny, bright green and turn orange in autumn. The so-called "perpetual" flowering period extends from May to August, with a break during periods of intense heat, which protects it from frost. The pure white, single flowers, measure 2 to 3 cm (1in) in diameter and are grouped in clusters. It is a flowering tree that is attractive to bees and provides nectar. Hardy and able to withstand temperatures to around -20°C (-4°F), it is suitable for cultivation in all regions, including mountainous areas. This variety is self-fertile and does not require a companion to bear fruit.

The All Saints Cherry offers an abundant and regular harvest every year (no alternate bearing). The optimal fruit production is achieved after 6 to 7 years. The fruits are attached to the branches in clusters by trailing petioles measuring 4 to 6 cm (2in) long, which gives the fruiting a highly decorative appearance. The harvest is most abundant in July and continues in limited quantities until October. It is important to pick Morello cherries when they are fully ripe and with their stems to improve their storage. An adult Morello cherry tree (between 10 and 20 years old) produces an average of 30 to 50 kilograms of fruit per year. This very juicy and tangy Morello cherry can be enjoyed raw, but its flavours truly shine when cooked or processed. It is delicious in clafoutis, cakes, crumbles, or pies and as an accompaniment to savoury dishes with white meats (turkey, chicken, veal, etc.) or tagines. It is also perfect for making jams, compotes, juices, or preserved fruits in syrup. Not to forget the famous Morello cherry brandy, to be consumed in moderation.

The Morello cherry has a high content of vitamins A, B, and C, phenolic antioxidants, potassium, calcium, and magnesium, and provides a significant amount of iron, making it a healthy choice. The fruits can only be stored for a few days at room temperature. However, they can be frozen after being washed, dried, and pitted, or used in preserves.

The Morello cherry tree, thanks to its fruits, is very popular and can be planted in various locations in the garden, such as on a lawn, at the back of a flower bed, in an orchard, or as part of an edible hedge. Among the wide range of cherry tree varieties, it is easy to find one that suits.