Western Sand is native to the northern Great Plains, and it’s a cold-hardy shrub that produces a heavy crop of dark fruit with a flavor similar to plums. Its small size means it can be used as a hedge, border, or specimen plant. It grows in any type of soil and has silver-green leaves that become burgundy and purple in the fall. It boasts attractive single white flowers in May, then produces 3/4-inch purple-black sweet fruit. Eat the fruit raw or use in jellies and baked goods.

Sun exposure:

• Partial to full sun

Soil pH:

• 6.6 to 8.4 (tolerates a wide range of soil conditions)

Hardiness Zones:

• 3 to 6

Spacing:

• 5 feet

Moisture:

• 1 inch per week

Notes:

• reaches a height and spread of 5 to 6 feet at maturity
• ripens early in the season
• is self-pollinating

Do you grow Western Sand cherries? Do they thrive in your climate? Please tell us about your Western Sand cherries.