Royal Ann Cherry Tree (Prunus avium ‘Royal Ann’)

Royal Ann cherry trees, also commonly known as Napoleon Bigarreau, and botanically classified as Prunus avium ‘Royal Ann’, are renowned for their beautiful blush-yellow fruit and sweet, delicate flavor. These classic cherries are not just a treat for the taste buds; they are a visually stunning addition to any landscape, offering gorgeous spring blossoms and vibrant fall foliage.

At Gardencenterpoint.com, we believe that growing your own fruit is one of life’s greatest rewards. This guide delves into everything you need to know to successfully cultivate Royal Ann cherry trees, from selecting the right tree at a local nursery to troubleshooting common problems like cherry tree diseases. We’ll explore the fascinating history of this variety, detailed planting instructions, ongoing care tips, and even some delicious culinary inspiration. Keep reading to unlock the secrets to a bountiful Royal Ann cherry harvest! This is your opportunity to buy your own source of delicious, home-grown cherries.

Understanding the Royal Ann Cherry: History, Characteristics, and Uses

The Royal Ann cherry has a rich history, dating back to Europe. It’s believed to be a descendant of ancient sweet cherry varieties. Its “Napoleon” moniker is even thought to be linked to Napoleon Bonaparte, who supposedly had a fondness for these cherries.

Common name	Royal Ann Cherry, Napoleon Bigarreau
Botanical name	Prunus avium ‘Royal Ann’
Family	Rosaceae
Genus	Prunus
Species	avium
Origin	Europe (believed to be)
Native	Not native to USA, but widely grown.
Life cycle	Perennial
Plant type	Deciduous Fruit Tree
Hardiness zone	5, 6, 7, 8 (Generally)
Sunlight	Full Sun (at least 6-8 hours)
Maintenance	Medium
Water	Moderate (Regular watering, especially when young; established trees are somewhat drought-tolerant)
Drainage	Well-Drained (Essential)
Spacing	15-20 ft. (Standard); 8-10 ft (Dwarf) – also depends on pollinator spacing.
Flowering period	Early to Mid-Spring
Height	15-35 ft. (Standard); Under 10 ft. (Dwarf)
Growth rate	Moderate to Fast (1-2 feet per year, potentially more with optimal conditions)
Flower color	White
Stem color	Brown to reddish-brown
Flower benefit	Showy, fragrant blossoms; attracts pollinators
Fruit Color	Yellow with a red blush
Flesh Color	Creamy White
Garden style	Orchard, Home Garden, Edible Landscape
Uses	Fresh eating, maraschino cherries, canning, preserving, baking
Soil pH	6.0-7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Chilling Hours	800-1000 (below 45°F / 7°C)
Pollination	Requires cross-pollination with a compatible sweet cherry variety.
Fruit Size	Medium to Large
Fruit Shape	Heart-shaped
Fruit Flavor	Sweet, delicate
Harvest Season	Late June to early July
Disease Resistance	Moderate, susceptible to some common cherry diseases.
Pest Resistance	Susceptible to common cherry pests.

The variety made its way to the United States in the 19th century, quickly gaining popularity for its exceptional flavor and versatility. It became a staple in the Pacific Northwest, particularly in Oregon, which remains a major producer of Royal Ann cherries. A contextual keyword is Oregon cherries.

Key Characteristics:

Fruit	Medium to large size, heart-shaped. Skin is a beautiful yellow with a prominent red blush. Flesh is firm, juicy, and exceptionally sweet.
Flavor	Sweet, with a delicate, almost floral undertone. Considered one of the sweetest cherry varieties. Synonyms delicious, flavorful, luscious.
Tree Size	Standard trees can reach 15-35 feet tall, while dwarf varieties typically stay under 10 feet.
Bloom Time	Early to mid-spring, producing a profusion of beautiful white flowers. Spring blossoms, white flowers.
Pollination	Requires cross-pollination with another compatible sweet cherry variety. See pollination section below for details.
Hardiness Zones	Generally hardy in USDA zones 5-8. USDA hardiness zones, cherry tree hardiness.
Chilling Hours	Requires a significant number of chilling hours (typically 800-1000 hours below 45°F/7°C) to break dormancy and produce fruit. Chilling hours for cherry trees.
Harvest Time	Late June to early July, depending on location and climate.
Uses	Excellent for fresh eating, canning, preserving, and brining (especially for maraschino cherries). Maraschino cherries, canning cherries.

Uses of Royal Ann Cherries:

While delectable when eaten fresh, Royal Ann cherries are also prized for their versatility in the kitchen. Their firm texture and sweet flavor make them ideal for:

• Maraschino Cherries: This is perhaps their most famous use. The cherries are bleached, then brined and infused with sweeteners and flavorings to create the bright red maraschino cherries used in cocktails and desserts.
• Canning and Preserving: Royal Ann cherries hold their shape and flavor well when canned or made into jams, jellies, and preserves.
• Baking: Their sweetness adds a delightful touch to pies, tarts, cobblers, and other baked goods.
• Freezing: Cherries can be frozen for later use in smoothies, sauces, or baked goods.

Gardencenterpoint.com advocates for experimenting with different culinary uses for your Royal Ann cherry harvest. The possibilities are truly endless!

Choosing the Right Royal Ann Cherry Tree: Buying Guide

Selecting a healthy, vigorous tree is the first step towards a successful harvest. Here’s what to look for when buying a Royal Ann cherry tree:

• Source: Purchase your tree from a reputable nursery or garden center. Gardencenterpoint.com connects you with trusted local nurseries that specialize in fruit trees. Reputable nursery, local garden center.
• Tree Size: Choose between standard, semi-dwarf, or dwarf rootstocks. Standard trees are the largest, while dwarf trees are suitable for smaller spaces and container gardening. Dwarf cherry tree, standard cherry tree. Consider rootstock compatibility for your local conditions.
• Tree Age: One- or two-year-old trees are generally recommended, as they establish more easily than older trees.
• Appearance: Look for a tree with a strong, straight trunk, well-developed branches, and healthy, vibrant leaves. Avoid trees with signs of damage, disease, or insect infestation.
• Root System: If possible, examine the root system. It should be well-developed and free of circling or girdling roots.
• Bare-root vs. Containerized: Bare root trees are typically sold during the dormant season and offer cost savings. Containerized trees offer more planting flexibility.

Pollination Requirements:

Royal Ann cherry trees are not self-fertile. This means they require pollen from another compatible sweet cherry variety to produce fruit. Suitable pollinators include:

• Bing
• Lambert
• Rainier
• Stella (self-fertile, and a good pollinator for other varieties)
• Van
• Black Tartarian

Plant your Royal Ann tree and its pollinator within 50 feet of each other to ensure adequate pollination. Proximity is important for bees and other pollinators to effectively transfer pollen between the trees.

Planting Your Royal Ann Cherry Tree: Step-by-Step Guide

Proper planting is crucial for the long-term health and productivity of your cherry tree. Follow these steps for optimal results:

1. Timing: Plant bare-root trees in late winter or early spring, while they are still dormant. Containerized trees can be planted any time the ground is not frozen, but spring or fall are ideal.
2. Location: Choose a sunny location that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Cherry trees thrive in well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0). Soil pH for cherry trees.
3. Soil Preparation: Before planting, amend the soil with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage and fertility. A soil test can help determine if any additional amendments are needed.
4. Digging the Hole: Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep.
5. Planting the Tree:
   • Bare-Root Trees: Gently spread the roots out in the hole. The top of the root flare (where the trunk transitions to roots) should be level with or slightly above the surrounding soil.
   • Containerized Trees: Carefully remove the tree from its container, being mindful of the roots. Gently loosen any circling roots before placing the tree in the hole. The top of the root ball should be level with the surrounding soil.
6. Backfilling: Fill the hole with the amended soil, gently tamping it down to eliminate air pockets. Avoid burying the root flare.
7. Watering: Water the tree deeply after planting to settle the soil.
8. Mulching: Apply a 2-4 inch layer of organic mulch (such as wood chips or shredded bark) around the base of the tree, keeping it a few inches away from the trunk. Mulch helps conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
9. Staking (if necessary): For standard sized or trees in windy areas, stake the tree to add stability during the first year.

Caring for Your Royal Ann Cherry Tree: Ongoing Maintenance

Consistent care is essential to ensure your Royal Ann cherry tree thrives and produces abundant fruit.

Watering:

• Young Trees: Water deeply and regularly, especially during dry periods. Aim to keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged.
• Mature Trees: Once established, Royal Ann cherry trees are relatively drought-tolerant. However, supplemental watering may be necessary during prolonged dry spells, especially during fruit development. Watering cherry trees.
• Water deeply and less frequently, rather than shallow, frequent watering. This helps to develop deep, strong roots.

Fertilizing:

• Young Trees: Apply a balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) in early spring, following package instructions.
• Mature Trees: Fertilize annually in early spring with a fertilizer formulated for fruit trees. A soil test can help determine specific nutrient needs. Fertilizing cherry trees. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive vegetative growth and reduced fruit production.

Pruning:

• Purpose: Pruning is essential for maintaining tree shape, promoting air circulation, and encouraging fruit production.
• Timing: Prune Royal Ann cherry trees in late winter or early spring, while they are still dormant.
• Technique:
  • Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches.
  • Thin out crowded branches to improve air circulation and sunlight penetration.
  • Prune to create an open center or modified central leader shape.
  • Remove suckers (vigorous shoots growing from the roots or lower trunk).
  • Make clean cuts just above a bud or branch collar. Pruning cherry trees. Gardencenterpoint.com recommends consulting with a local arborist or experienced gardener for personalized pruning advice.

Pest and Disease Management:

Royal Ann cherry trees can be susceptible to various pests and diseases. Regular monitoring and preventative measures are key to keeping your tree healthy.

Common Pests:

• Aphids: These small, sap-sucking insects can cause leaf curling and distortion. Control with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
• Cherry Fruit Flies: These pests lay their eggs in developing cherries, causing maggots to infest the fruit. Use sticky traps and appropriate insecticides to control.
• Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause leaf stippling and webbing. Control with horticultural oil or miticides.
• Borers: These insects can tunnel into the trunk and branches, causing damage. Preventative sprays and maintaining tree health are important.

Common Diseases:

• Brown Rot: This fungal disease causes fruit rot and blossom blight. Preventative fungicide sprays and good sanitation practices are essential.
• Cherry Leaf Spot: This fungal disease causes small, reddish-brown spots on leaves, leading to premature leaf drop. Fungicide sprays and raking up fallen leaves can help control this disease.
• Bacterial Canker: This bacterial disease causes sunken, oozing cankers on branches and trunks. Prune out infected branches and avoid wounding the tree.
• Powdery Mildew: Appears as a white, powdery coating on leaves and fruit. Improve air circulation, and treat with fungicides if severe.

Integrated Pest Management (IPM):

Gardencenterpoint.com advocates for an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach, which emphasizes prevention, monitoring, and the use of least-toxic control methods. This includes:

• Regularly inspecting your tree for signs of pests and diseases.
• Maintaining good sanitation practices (e.g., removing fallen leaves and fruit).
• Encouraging beneficial insects (e.g., ladybugs, lacewings) that prey on pests.
• Using biological controls (e.g., beneficial nematodes) when appropriate.
• Applying pesticides only when necessary and choosing the least-toxic option.

Harvesting and Storing Royal Ann Cherries

The moment you’ve been waiting for the sweet reward of your efforts!

Harvesting:

• Timing: Royal Ann cherries are typically ready for harvest in late June to early July, depending on your location and the weather.
• Ripeness: Cherries are ripe when they have developed their full color (yellow with a red blush) and are slightly soft to the touch. They should easily detach from the stem with a gentle tug.
• Method: Harvest cherries by hand, carefully picking them with the stems attached. This helps to prolong their shelf life.
• Frequency: Pick cherries regularly as they ripen, as they do not continue to ripen off the tree.

Storing:

• Short-Term Storage: Store freshly picked cherries in the refrigerator, unwashed, in a perforated plastic bag or container. They will typically last for 5-7 days.
• Long-Term Storage: For longer storage, cherries can be frozen, canned, or dried.
  • Freezing: Wash and pit the cherries, then spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen cherries to freezer bags or containers.
  • Canning: Follow a tested canning recipe for preserving cherries in syrup or juice.
  • Drying: Use a food dehydrator or oven to dry cherries for a chewy, concentrated treat.

Troubleshooting Common Royal Ann Cherry Tree Problems

Even with the best care, you may encounter some challenges with your Royal Ann cherry tree. Here are some common problems and potential solutions:

• Lack of Fruit:
  • Poor Pollination: Ensure you have a compatible pollinator variety planted nearby. Consider hand-pollinating if necessary.
  • Insufficient Chilling Hours: Royal Ann cherries require a certain number of chilling hours (below 45°F/7°C) to break dormancy and produce fruit. If your area does not receive enough chilling hours, the tree may not flower or fruit properly.
  • Late Frost: A late frost can damage blossoms, preventing fruit set. Protect your tree with frost blankets if a late frost is predicted.
  • Nutrient Deficiency: A soil test can help identify any nutrient deficiencies that may be affecting fruit production.
  • Improper Pruning: Over-pruning or pruning at the wrong time can reduce fruit yield.
• Yellowing Leaves:
  • Overwatering or Poor Drainage: Cherry trees do not tolerate waterlogged soil. Ensure your tree is planted in well-drained soil and avoid overwatering.
  • Nutrient Deficiency: Yellowing leaves can be a sign of nitrogen or iron deficiency. A soil test can help determine the cause.
  • Disease: Certain diseases, such as cherry leaf spot, can cause yellowing leaves.
• Leaf Curling or Distortion:
  • Aphids: These pests can cause leaf curling and distortion. Control with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
  • Disease: Some viral diseases can cause leaf curling.
• Fruit Rot:
  • Brown Rot: This fungal disease is a common cause of fruit rot. Preventative fungicide sprays and good sanitation practices are essential.
• Cracked Fruit:
  • Uneven Watering: Inconsistent watering, especially large amounts of water after a dry spell, can cause the fruit to crack.
• Gummosis (Sap Oozing):
  • Bacterial Canker: This bacterial disease can cause sunken, oozing cankers on branches and trunks. Prune out infected branches.
  • Injury: Mechanical injury or insect damage can also cause gummosis.

Frequently Asked Questions about Royal Ann Cherry Trees

Q: How long does it take for a Royal Ann cherry tree to bear fruit?

A: A Royal Ann cherry tree typically begins to bear fruit 3-5 years after planting, depending on the rootstock (dwarf trees bear fruit sooner) and growing conditions.

Q: Can I grow a Royal Ann cherry tree in a container?

A: Yes, dwarf varieties of Royal Ann cherry trees can be grown in containers. Choose a large container (at least 20 gallons) with good drainage.

Q: What is the lifespan of a Royal Ann cherry tree?

A: With proper care, a standard Royal Ann cherry tree can live for 20-30 years or more. Dwarf trees have a slightly shorter lifespan.

Q: Are Royal Ann cherries good for you?

A: Yes, cherries are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Q: Do birds eat Royal Ann cherries? A: Yes, birds are very fond of cherries. Netting the tree is the most effective way to protect your fruit from birds.