- MI Native Small Trees and Shrubs
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- Purple chokecherry 6-12"
Purple chokecherry 6-12"
Purple Chokecherry (Prunus virginiana ‘Schubert’) is a hardy, ornamental native tree prized for its deep maroon foliage and seasonal beauty. Emerging green in spring, the leaves quickly mature to a rich purple, creating a striking contrast against clusters of fragrant white flowers that bloom in late April to early May. These blooms attract pollinators and give way to small red fruits that ripen to dark purple—beloved by birds and suitable for jams and preserves.
Reaching 20 to 30 feet tall with a rounded, upright form, Purple Chokecherry is well-suited for hedgerows, windbreaks, and wildlife plantings. It thrives in full sun and adapts to a wide range of soils, including dry, rocky, or urban conditions. This self-pollinating variety is cold-hardy to Zone 2 and tolerant of drought, salt, and pollution. While it may sucker to form colonies, this trait can be managed or embraced for naturalized screens and habitat corridors.
A resilient and visually striking choice for restoration, edible landscapes, or native gardens, Purple Chokecherry offers year-round interest and ecological value.