Sheffield's Seed Company

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Growing Info

Scarification: Soak in water, let stand in water for 24 hours

Stratification: warm stratify for 30 days, cold stratify for 120 days

Germination: sow seed 1/2" deep, tamp the soil, mulch the seed bed

Native to: Great Plains, North America, United States

Native

Introduced

Prunus besseyiPrunus besseyi

Bessey's Plum, Western Sand Cherry

In Stock: 15.688 lb (Total:15.688lb)

Prunus besseyi

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15.69 lb SD

Details

Germination:

98%

Germination test:

Cut (Full Seed)

Purity:

99%

Seeds per lb:

3,416

Quantity:

15.69 lb

Collected in:

South Dakota

Crop year:

2025

Min. hardiness zone:

Item ID:

1836200

Characteristics

No Export to These Countries

Australia, Canada, South Africa

Growing Info

Scarification: Soak in water, let stand in water for 24 hours

Stratification: warm stratify for 30 days, cold stratify for 120 days

Germination: sow seed 1/2" deep, tamp the soil, mulch the seed bed

Native to: Great Plains, North America, United States

Native

Introduced

Explore the versatile beauty of Western Sand Cherry, scientifically known as Prunus besseyi, a remarkable addition to any landscape. This hardy deciduous shrub typically reaches heights and spreads of 4-6 feet. It boasts a striking array of seasonal transformations: fragrant white blossoms grace the branches in spring, giving way to glossy, purplish-black fruits in summer. These fruits are not only a delightful snack for humans to make in pies, jellies, and jams, but also to wildlife. As autumn arrives, the foliage transforms into a vibrant red, adding a splash of color to any garden.

Native to the Great Plains region, this adaptable shrub thrives in USDA Zones 3-8, and is highly tolerant of various climatic conditions including cold, heat, drought, and wind. It's equally resilient in urban environments, handling pollution with ease. Western Sand Cherry's ability to flourish in diverse soil types and its moderate growth rate, especially in well-drained, non-clay soils, make it an ideal choice for windbreaks, shelterbelts, and drought-tolerant landscapes. With its suckering habit, it forms dense thickets perfect for bird habitats. Plus, its deer resistance and capacity to turn leaves into a green dye only add to its charm and utility. Embrace the beauty and resilience of Western Sand Cherry in full sun or part shade and bring a touch of dynamic color and ecological benefit to your outdoor space.