Bird Cherry
Prunus pensylvanica
Last reviewed: June 2026
Bird Cherry is toxic to dogs and cats.
Listed as toxic by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) (last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435and your veterinarian's emergency line.
Pollinator Patch flags toxic plants so you can choose a pet-safe native alternative for your yard.
Bird Cherry is listed as toxic to grazing livestock (cattle, sheep, and goats) at a moderate level by the USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab). This is a livestock indicator and is separate from pet toxicity.
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
240"–480" H × 120"–240" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
CO, CT, GA, IA and 23 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles, flies
Pin cherry is a fast-growing native tree that produces clusters of white flowers in late spring followed by small red cherries in summer. It typically grows 20-40 feet tall with an open, somewhat irregular crown and serves as an excellent pioneer species for naturalized areas.
In an HOA neighborhood
Bird Cherry takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Short-lived tree (15-25 years)
- Irregular growth habit appears unmanicured
- Fruit drop creates mess on walkways and driveways
Wildlife value
The flowers attract bees, beetles, and flies in May and June, while the small cherries provide food for over 40 bird species. The tree also serves as a host plant for various butterfly and moth caterpillars.
Common questions
- How much sun does Bird Cherry need?
- Bird Cherry grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Bird Cherry bloom?
- Bird Cherry blooms in May and June.
- Where is Bird Cherry native?
- Bird Cherry (Prunus pensylvanica) is native to CO, CT, GA, IA and 23 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Bird Cherry toxic to dogs?
- Yes. Bird Cherry is listed as toxic to dogs by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (aspca.org). If your pet has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.
- Is Bird Cherry toxic to cats?
- Yes. Bird Cherry is listed as toxic to cats by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (aspca.org). If your cat has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.
- Is Bird Cherry toxic to livestock?
- Bird Cherry is listed as toxic to grazing livestock such as cattle, sheep, and goats (moderate severity) by the USDA PLANTS Database. This is separate from pet (dog and cat) toxicity.
- What pollinators does Bird Cherry attract?
- Bird Cherry draws bees, beetles, and flies.
- Is Bird Cherry HOA-friendly?
- Bird Cherry takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Pollinator Patch flags toxic plants like Bird Cherry and shows pet-safe natives for your ecoregion instead.
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