Key features
AwardsRHS Award of Garden Merit
Final sizeDwarf 3m, Semi-vigorous 4-5m in 10 years
FruitEating cherry
Pollination groupSelf fertile, group B
Cropping periodMid season (Late July)
PositionFull sun
Description
Stella Cherry tree was the first self fertile sweet cherry and is still the top choice for garden use. Pretty white flowers are followed by large, dark red fruits that are sweet and juicy with a good classic cherry flavour. The cherries can be picked around late July. In autumn, the leaves turn colourful shades of orange before falling.
As well as being a fantastic stand-alone choice, if you are planting another Cherry tree then Stella is an excellent companion as it is a good pollinator. A very popular variety for its reliability and flavour, Stella is often the first self fertile cherry tree that we recommend.
Prunus avium ‘Stella’ cherry tree originates from Canada 1968 and has received the RHS Award of garden Merit.
Planting Steps
1Preparation
- Pot-grown plants can be planted at any time of year, whereas bare roots need to be planted between November and March.
- Clear weeds and grass within a metre of the planting hole.
- Dig a hole as deep as the root mass and twice as wide.
- To help your plant establish more effectively, sprinkle Rootgrow in the hole.
2Planting
- Gently loosen the roots and place into the planting hole.
- Ensure the top of the plant’s compost is flush with the level of the surrounding soil and the graft union or collar of the tree is above ground level.
- Mix 50% of the original soil with 50% compost.
- Fill in the hole, firming the soil gently.
3Last Steps
- Water generously around the base of the plant.
- If you are planting either a single stem tree or mature standard tree, we recommend adding a staking kit and rabbit guard.
Aftercare Advice
Trees and shrubs require a good watering regime for a couple of years whilst they establish. Water well and regularly through spring and summer, increasing in hot or dry weather. If planting in autumn, you may only need to water a little. It is advisable to keep the area free of competing weeds and grass during this period.
For more detailed advice and video guides, please visit our Help & Advice section.
