Western Sand Cherry

Prunus pumila var. besseyi

Cultivars: 'Pawnee Buttes', 'Hansen'

Western sand cherry is a hardy, native shrub well suited to xeric and naturalized landscapes. It produces fragrant white spring flowers followed by small edible fruits that attract wildlife. Its low, spreading to upright habit makes it useful for mass plantings, slope stabilization, and wildlife-friendly landscapes. Foliage is medium green and often turns attractive shades of red or orange in fall, adding seasonal interest.

Plant Characteristics
Genus
Prunus
Species
Prunus pumila var. besseyi
Cultivar
‘Pawnee Buttes’, ‘Hansen’
Family
Rosaceae
Plant Characteristics
Bird-Attracting
Fall Color
Flowering
Foliage Interest
Fruit-Bearing
Groundcover
Low-Maintenance
Pollinator-Friendly
Spring-Blooming
Plant Color
Blue-green
Flower Color
White
Bloom Time
Spring
Fall Color
Red - purple
Height
1-6'
Width
3-6'
Water Use
Low
Care Instructions

Western sand cherry performs best in full sun and well-drained soils. It has low water needs once established and tolerates drought and alkaline soils well. Water regularly during the first season, then transition to deeper, less frequent irrigation. Pruning can be done in early spring to thin older stems and maintain vigor. Winter protection is generally not necessary in Rocky Mountain climates.