'Schubert' choke cherry (Prunus virginiana 'Schubert') PREW-nus ver-jin-ee-AY-nah Genus:  Prunus 'Schubert' choke cherry, with its vivid foliage and pyramidal form, makes a fine focal point. Ephemeral, light pink flowers are followed by abundant, dark red-purple fruit that birds love. (Don't plant it near patios or walks, as they'll quickly be covered by bird droppings.) If the tree you buy isn't grafted onto nonsuckering rootstock; otherwise, suckers could become problematic as the years go by. -Ron Smith, Regional Picks: Upper Plains, Fine Gardening issue #120 Noteworthy Characteristics:  Burgundy foliage and reddish purple fruit that attracts birds. The species is a U.S. native. Care:  Provide full sun to light shade and alkaline soil. Plant choke cherry where bird activity will not cause a problem. Propagation:  Remove rooted suckers, if any. Problems:  Tent caterpillars are the primary problem.

Overview

Height 15 ft. to 30 ft. Spread 15 ft. to 30 ft. Light Full Sun to Part Shade Moisture Medium Moisture Maintenance Low Characteristics Attracts Song Birds, Attracts Butterflies, Native, Showy Foliage, Showy Fruit Bloom Time Spring Flower Color Pink Foliage Color Colorful/Burgundy Foliage Uses Beds and Borders, Hedge, Screening, Specimen Plant/Focal Point Style Woodland Garden Seasonal Interest Spring Interest Type Shrubs