Asia, and is grown as an ornamental tree for its strongly fragrant flowers. It has also become naturalised in temperate areas, including Europe, Australia and the United States. The mahaleb cherry produces a small, thin-fleshed cherry-like drupe that ripens in mid to late summer. The species demonstrates selective fruit abortion, resulting in low fruit set levels but high seed viability. The tree is cultivated for its seeds, which are used as a spice to sharpen sweet foods like Turkish sweet-bread çörek and Greek sweet-bread tsoureki. The bark, wood, and seeds contain coumarin, which has anti-inflammatory, sedative, and vasodilation effects. This cherry tree has a rich history and fascinating ecological relationships, making it a unique addition to any garden or spice rack.