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Mazzard Cherry

Prunus avium

Last reviewed: August 2026

Mazzard Cherry (Prunus avium)
Photo: Carl Axel Magnus Lindman / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

Mazzard Cherry is toxic to dogs and cats.

Listed as toxic by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) (last reviewed 2026-08-15). 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.

Light

part shade

Water

medium

Size

240"–600" H × 240"–480" W

Bloom

Apr, May

Pollinators

bees, beetles

Native alternatives to Mazzard Cherry

Mazzard Cherry is not native to the United States. These natives fill a similar role in a planting, matched on bloom season, bloom color and mature size.

Before you buy

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Mazzard cherry is a large deciduous tree that produces clusters of white flowers in spring before leafing out. This European species can grow quite tall and wide, making it suitable for larger properties with ample space.

In an HOA neighborhood

Mazzard Cherry is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.

Works well in: front yard, mid zone.

  • Very large mature size may overwhelm smaller lots
  • Fruit drop can create cleanup needs

Wildlife value

The spring blooms attract bees and beetles for pollination. Birds often feed on the small dark cherries that follow the flowers.

Common questions

How much sun does Mazzard Cherry need?
Mazzard Cherry grows best in part shade conditions.
When does Mazzard Cherry bloom?
Mazzard Cherry blooms in April and May.
Is Mazzard Cherry toxic to dogs?
Yes. Mazzard 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 Mazzard Cherry toxic to cats?
Yes. Mazzard 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.
What pollinators does Mazzard Cherry attract?
Mazzard Cherry draws bees and beetles.
Is Mazzard Cherry HOA-friendly?
Mazzard Cherry is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.

Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

If something looks wrong

Common plant problems, and what to check first

These come up on almost any plant. Each guide lists the likely causes in the order they are worth ruling out, with one thing to check before you act on any of them, and links to the source it came from.

See all plant problem guides

Pollinator Patch flags toxic plants like Mazzard Cherry and shows pet-safe natives for your ecoregion instead.

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