The Black Republican cherry tree (Prunus avium 'Black Republican') is a hardy tree that is one of the best pollinators for other sweet cherry varieties. A very important tree for the commercial food industry, the Republican black cherry is widely used to flavor yogurt and other products. These trees also work in the home! In this post, we'll look at the Republican black cherry tree, its history, and how to care for this delicious addition to your garden. 
The history of the republican black cherry tree Planting this tree means growing a piece of history. The Black Republican Cherry Tree celebrates the work of Seth Leveling, a nurseryman with strong abolitionist beliefs that helped fugitive slaves escape the north. The tree was first grown in Oregon in the 1860s after a wagon full of fruit trees was brought to the Pacific Northwest. As a reflection of his belief in equality, he called the difference a black republican. Black Republic Fruit Tree/Fruit Characteristics Republican black cherry trees are hardy, cold-hardy variety of cherry trees. They produce white flowers in the spring and retain their green leaves throughout the summer months. Its leaves gradually turn yellow at the beginning of autumn. This mid-season tree is also one of the best pollinators for the other sweet cherry trees out there. Republican black cherry trees typically grow to an average height of 18 to 20 feet, with an average spread of 15 to 18 feet. The fruit they produce is mid-range and considered small by most commercial standards. It has a strong flavor that lasts even when cooked, is a deep purple color, and has a firm texture. Its dark juice will stain fingers and clothes. Size and spacing The Republican black cherry tree grows to a mature height of 18 to 20 feet with a spread of 15 to 18 feet. This makes it ideal for decorative spaces in lawns and gardens. 
Pollination Republican black cherry trees are not self-fruitful, but require pollination from another tree. They are well pollinated with a variety of sweet cherry trees such as Van, Stella, Bing, Rainier, and Napoleon. Tree care Sunshine Republican black cherry trees need to be planted in a location that receives at least 6 hours of full sun to bloom. Sunlight in the morning is usually best, as it quickly dries the leaves of any moisture you have collected overnight. Water Republican black cherry trees require 12 to 15 gallons of water per week from May through September. Pruning As with all trees, it is important to prune dead or diseased branches. Pruning is also recommended to help the tree achieve proper airflow and prevent disease. It can also be performed cosmetically to help control the shape of the tree. For more information on pruning this particular type of tree, see our post on Black Republican Cherry Tree Pruning. Diseases and care Rot, spot, and knot diseases are common in all types of cherry trees. Crown and root rot diseases are caused by an organism found in most types of soil. Trees can also be susceptible to powdery mildew, blight, and stem cankers. 
For information on tree diseases of this species, see our article on Republican black cherry tree diseases and care. Common Use of Black Republican Cherry Taste: Black Republican Cherry has a rich and intense sweet black cherry flavor that has been compared to herbs, almonds, and roses. It has glossy black-purple skin and deep burgundy flesh, and its juice will stain fingers and clothes. Cooking: The strong flavor and darker color of black republican cherries make them great for cooked applications. It imparts a deep purple color and a strong cherry flavor to cakes, curds, ice cream, and waffles. Eating raw: Republican black cherries can be eaten straight from the branch and have a strong flavor that many say is reminiscent of herbs, almonds, and roses. This flavor persists throughout the cooking process. Canning/Freezing/Drying: Because of their harvest window, Republican black cherries are not always easy to find. Fortunately, this variety is suitable for preserving in cans or freezers, and its high sugar content makes it ideal for drying. Health benefits of black cherry Republican black cherries contain a powerful type of antioxidant that is currently being researched to reduce pain and inflammation. The deep-colored fruit is a good source of vitamins A and C as well as iron and calcium. Sometimes, however, Republican black cherry trees bear fruit that is considered small by most commercial standards, so the best option for tasting this wonderful fruit fresh from the tree is to grow it yourself. The Republican black cherry tree is a vigorous, high-yielding tree, especially when combined with other sweet cherry varieties for cross-pollination. They do best in growing zones 5 through 9 and thrive when given at least 6 hours of full sun per day. 
Morning sunlight is best because it helps the leaves dry out after collecting moisture overnight. Republican black cherry trees do best in well-drained soil and need constant watering to stay healthy. It is a good idea to choose a highly visible spot in your garden to decorate it, especially in the spring to show off its snowy white flowers. The tree will retain its green leaves throughout the summer months, gradually turning yellow as fall approaches. The tree produces small to medium-sized, heavy, dark purple fruit known for its heavy, rich black cherry flavor. The fruit is small by most commercial standards, but the Republican black cherry tree is also a favorite in the commercial food industry due to its strong fruit flavor. The flavor of Republican black cherry has been compared to herbs, almonds, and roses. It remains stable after cooking, cooling and drying, making the variety popular with chefs. Despite its history and popularity for flavoring commercial foods, the Republican black cherry tree is a rare species today, with only 200 acres in production. It's also included in the Ark of Taste, which aims to preserve endangered heritage foods like these heirloom cherries. Add this attractive and delicious historic tree to your garden today!
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