Prunus ssiori
F. Schmidt.
Japanese bird cherry
iNaturalist· cc-by-nc
(c) Keita Watanabe, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC), uploaded by Keita Watanabe
iNaturalist· cc-by-sa
(c) Grzegorz Grzejszczak, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA), uploaded by Grzegorz Grzejszczak
Summary
Source: WikipediaPrunus ssiori, the Hokkaido bird cherry or Japanese bird cherry, is a species of bird cherry native to northern Japan, Sakhalin Island, and the Kuril Islands. Some natural populations may occur on the far eastern mainland of Asia in Russia. Its specific epithet derives from its Ainu name, meaning "bitter".
Description
A large deciduous tree reaching 23 m tall, hardy to UK zone 5. Flowers appear in June. The tree is hermaphroditic and insect-pollinated. It tolerates light sandy, medium loamy, and heavy clay soils, preferring well-drained conditions. Grows in mildly acid, neutral, or basic soils. Can thrive in semi-shade or full sun and prefers consistently moist soil.
Edible Uses
The fruit can be eaten raw or cooked and contains a single large seed. The seed is also edible raw or cooked, but should not be eaten if it tastes too bitter.
Medicinal Uses
Like all members of the genus, this species contains amygdalin and prunasin, which break down in water to release hydrocyanic acid (prussic acid). In small amounts, this compound stimulates respiration, aids digestion, and produces a sense of well-being.
Known Hazards
Although no specific mention has been seen for this species, it belongs to a genus where most, if not all members of the genus produce hydrogen cyanide, a poison that gives almonds their characteristic flavour. This toxin is found mainly in the leaves and seed and is readily detected by its bitter taste. It is usually present in too small a quantity to do any harm but any very bitter seed or fruit should not be eaten. In small quantities, hydrogen cyanide has been shown to stimulate respiration and improve digestion, it is also claimed to be of benefit in the treatment of cancer. In excess, however, it can cause respiratory failure and even death.
Distribution
Temperate.
Where It Grows
Asia, Japan, Manchuria,
Cultivation
Thrives in a well-drained moisture-retentive loamy soil. Prefers some lime in the soil but is likely to become chlorotic if too much lime is present. Succeeds in sun or partial shade though it fruits better in a sunny position. Most members of this genus are shallow-rooted and will produce suckers if the roots are damaged. Plants in this genus are notably susceptible to honey fungus.
Propagation
Seed requires 2–3 months of cold stratification and is best sown in a cold frame as soon as it is ripe. Stored seed should be sown in a cold frame as early in the year as possible and protected from mice. Germination can be slow, sometimes taking 18 months. Prick out seedlings into individual pots when large enough to handle, overwinter in a greenhouse or cold frame, then plant out in late spring or early summer the following year. Cuttings of half-ripe wood with a heel can be taken in July/August in a frame. Softwood cuttings from vigorous plants can be taken in spring to early summer in a frame. Layering can be done in spring.
Other Uses
A green dye can be obtained from the leaves, and a dark grey to green dye from the fruit. The wood is heavy, hard, strong, tenacious, and close-grained, and is used for shafts, utensils, and engraving.
Notes
There are about 200 Prunus species.
References (2)
- Mem. Acad. Imp. Sci. Saint Petersbourg, Ser. 7, 12(2):124. 1868
- Plants for a Future, The Field, Penpol, Lostwithiel, Cornwall, PL22 0NG, UK. http://www.scs.leeds.ac.uk/pfaf/
