One of our earliest flowering European introductions, this tree or shrub which can reach 5m, is actually a member of the Dogwood (Cornaceae) family and not a Cherry (Prunus which is in the Rosaceae). It isn't often found properly naturalised but this was one of the more convincing examples growing in the middle of a bramble patch.

There are no heavy concentrations of this plant but there is more in the south of England than the north or in Scotland. There is little recorded from Wales or Ireland.

Heaton Mersey near Stockport, 25th February 2008

Added on 1st March 2008, updated 6th December 2008, updated 20th March 2010, updated Se3 4th May 2010