PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun required for optimal fruit production; tolerates partial shade but reduces fruiting yield
Watering
Deep watering every 7–10 days during dry periods; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
Temperature
Hardy to -15°C; prefers temperate climates; avoid prolonged extreme heat above 35°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Oval, serrated margins, glossy green; turns yellow-orange in autumn
- Flower: Clusters of 2–5 white or pale pink five-petaled blooms
- Stem/Bark: Smooth brown bark with horizontal lenticels; becomes fissured with age
Care Guide
Watering
Deep watering every 7 days during fruit development to support growth
Fertilization
Balanced granular feed applied at bud break to support bloom and fruit set. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers that promote excessive leaf growth over fruiting
Eggshell powder topdress：Crush dried eggshells to fine powder; sprinkle 1–2 tbsp around the tree base; water in to slowly release calcium into the soilPruning
- Prune in late winter to remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches and shape the canopy
- Thin overcrowded fruiting spurs to improve fruit size and air circulation
- Remove root suckers regularly to maintain tree vigor and redirect nutrients to the main canopy
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; ingestion of leaves, stems, or seeds may cause cyanide poisoning
Humans: Fruit flesh is safe; leaves, stems, and seeds contain cyanogenic glycosides that release cyanide when ingested
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Symbolizes renewal and sweetness in European folklore; associated with spring celebrations and harvest traditions
Usage: Edible fruit for fresh eating, baking, and jam production; ornamental spring blooms for landscape design
