How to Grow Crimson Jewel
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Crimson Jewel
Prunus avium 'Crimson Jewel'
treeCrimson Jewel is a dwarf cherry tree cultivar known for its ornamental red foliage and small, dark red cherries. This compact tree is ideal for small gardens and containers, offering both aesthetic appeal and edible fruit production. It typically reaches 8-10 feet in height, making it one of the smaller cherry varieties available.
When should you plant Crimson Jewel in your zone?
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Example Crimson Jewel timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Crimson Jewel
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Crimson Jewel
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Crimson Jewel dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Zones 5-8; prefers regions with distinct seasons and winter chilling hours
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Get my Crimson Jewel timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
First yearYoung tree with developing root system and primary branch structure. Height 2-3 feet at planting.
Water regularly to establish roots. Apply 2-3 inches of mulch around base. Do minimal pruning except to remove damaged wood. Support with stake if needed.
Vegetative Growth
Year 2-3Tree grows vigorously with increasing height and branch development. Red foliage intensifies; white spring blossoms appear.
Prune to develop open center or vase shape. Remove crossing or inward-growing branches. Fertilize in early spring with balanced formula. Thin dense growth.
Flowering
2-3 weeks in spring (varies by zone)Abundant white flowers with light pink tinges appear in spring before or as foliage emerges. Very ornamental stage.
Protect from late frosts which can kill flowers. Do not fertilize with high nitrogen as it reduces flowering. Ensure adequate sunlight for bloom production.
Fruit Development
6-8 weeksSmall green berries appear and gradually enlarge, developing dark crimson color as they ripen. Tree continues growing.
Thin fruit if crowded to promote larger cherries; remove every other fruit on heavily laden branches. Continue regular watering. Watch for pest activity.
Ripening & Harvest
2-4 weeks (early to mid-summer)Cherries develop full deep red to nearly black color; become soft and sweet. Foliage remains ornamentally red.
Harvest when fully colored and slightly soft. Handle gently to avoid bruising. Protect from birds with netting if desired. Prune diseased or dead wood after harvest.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Use pheromone traps in early summer; remove fallen fruit; spray with spinosad if needed in June-July
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Remove egg bands in winter; prune out tents when small; apply Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) spray
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Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; remove affected leaves
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Use bird netting over fruit in summer; hang reflective tape or fake predators
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Spray with strong water stream; use insecticidal soap or neem oil in spring
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Remove mummified fruit; improve air circulation through pruning; avoid wounding branches
Uses
Fresh eating and desserts
CulinaryThe small, sweet dark cherries are excellent for fresh eating straight from the tree. They can be used in desserts, jams, and preserves. [source]
Landscape ornament
OrnamentalThe deep red foliage, spring white flowers, and compact size make it an excellent ornamental specimen tree for small gardens and patios. The red coloring persists through the growing season. [source]
Wildlife food source
WildlifeBirds and other wildlife are attracted to the fruit and flowers, supporting local ecosystems and pollinators. [source]
Container growing
HouseholdThe dwarf stature allows Crimson Jewel to thrive in large containers on decks and patios, making it accessible for small-space gardeners. [source]
Harvest Tips
Harvest cherries when fully dark red and slightly soft, usually early to mid-summer. Pick with stems attached by gently twisting or use pruning shears. Taste one to confirm sweetness before harvesting the crop. Early morning picking ensures best flavor. Cherries do not ripen off the tree, so harvest only when fully ripe.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Crimson Jewel cherries are self-fertile, meaning they can produce fruit without a pollinator partner, though cross-pollination with another cherry tree increases yields.
- 🌱 The distinctive deep red foliage is retained throughout the growing season, making this tree ornamental even when not in fruit or flower.
- 🌱 Sweet cherry trees like Crimson Jewel require 300-900 chilling hours (depending on cultivar) during winter dormancy to fruit properly, which is why they thrive in temperate zones but struggle in warm climates.
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