Prunus serrula - Birch Bark Cherry

Introduced in 1908, the species is more famous for its beautiful bark. The leaves are rather narrow and willow-like while the white flowers, borne in late April, are rather inconspicuous and around 10mm across. The dark green leaves turn yellow in the autumn.

It grows into a round-headed tree around 10m tall and 10m spread. The outer bark begins to peel off in the autumn to reveal the shiny bark beneath.

serrula_01S Prunus serrula
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At Keele: one specimen between Walter Moberly Hall and Tawney Building; compartment 44c; tag 4016.

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All images ©  Dave Emley unless stated otherwise.