The Mazzard Cherry or Sweet Cherry tree, known for its round red fruit, is valued for its reddish-brown timber used in various applications like furniture, paneling, and pipes. Its wood also makes excellent firewood, releasing a pleasant blossom scent when burned. The Mazzard Cherry, a historical variety, has played a crucial role in rootstock development, genetic preservation, and cherry breeding efforts.
This large tree, often found as a multi-trunked shrub in the wild, features a broad, rounded crown, reaching heights of 50-65 feet (15-20 m). Its green leaves, 2-6 inches (5-15 cm) long, turn yellowish-red in the fall. In April, the tree blooms with bundles of large, single white flowers, followed by dark red edible fruits, its main identification feature. It's suitable for landscaping, parks, and open green areas, growing up to 9 meters tall and living for around 200 years. You can commonly find it in woodlands and hedgerows throughout Europe, including the British Isles, where it's cultivated for its abundant spring flowers.
