Stella Cherry Tree Description

The Stella Cherry Tree (Prunus avium ‘Stella’) is a popular self-fertile sweet cherry tree, making it a practical choice when there is space for only one fruit tree. It produces sweet, juicy, dark red cherries from around July, which can be enjoyed fresh or used in desserts, jams and other recipes.

In spring, the tree produces attractive white blossom before developing its summer fruit. With a moderate growth rate of approximately 30–60cm per year, the Stella Cherry Tree can reach around 3–4 metres when mature.

For the best growth and fruit ripening, plant Stella in a sunny, sheltered position with fertile, well-drained soil.

Pruning Advice

Prune the Stella Cherry Tree in late summer, after fruiting, rather than during winter. Summer pruning helps reduce the risk of diseases such as silver leaf.

Remove dead, damaged or crossing branches and thin out overcrowded growth to improve airflow and light penetration. Light pruning is generally sufficient to maintain a balanced shape and support healthy fruit production.

Avoid removing large amounts of healthy growth unnecessarily, as excessive pruning can affect the tree's natural shape and fruiting.

Further Information

Self-Fertile Sweet Cherry

One of the main advantages of Prunus avium ‘Stella’ is that it is self-fertile. Unlike varieties that require a compatible pollination partner, Stella can produce fruit without needing a second cherry tree nearby.

Fruit and Blossom

Stella produces sweet, dark red cherries from around July. Before fruiting, its white spring blossom provides an attractive display and can provide a source of nectar for pollinating insects.

Planting a Stella Cherry Tree

Choose a sunny, sheltered position with fertile, well-drained soil. Good drainage is particularly important, as cherry trees do not perform well in waterlogged conditions.

When planting, allow enough space for the mature tree to develop and avoid positions where the roots are likely to remain in consistently wet soil.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Stella Cherry Tree self-fertile?

Yes. Stella is a self-fertile sweet cherry variety, so it can produce fruit without requiring another cherry tree for pollination.

How tall does a Stella Cherry Tree grow?

A Stella Cherry Tree can reach approximately 3–4 metres at maturity, depending on growing conditions and the plant's rootstock.

How fast does a Stella Cherry Tree grow?

Stella has a moderate growth rate of approximately 30–60cm per year.

When does a Stella Cherry Tree produce fruit?

Stella cherries typically ripen from around July, although the exact timing can vary depending on weather and growing conditions.

What do Stella cherries taste like?

Stella cherries are known for their sweet, juicy flavour and dark red fruit. They can be eaten fresh or used in desserts, preserves and other recipes.

When should I prune a Stella Cherry Tree?

Prune Stella in late summer after fruiting. This timing helps reduce the risk of silver leaf disease and allows you to remove unwanted or overcrowded growth.

Where should I plant a Stella Cherry Tree?

Choose a sunny, sheltered position with fertile, well-drained soil. Avoid waterlogged ground and heavy soils that retain excessive moisture.

Can I grow a Stella Cherry Tree in a small garden?

Yes. Stella can be suitable for small to medium-sized gardens, particularly where the available space allows for its mature height of approximately 3–4 metres. The final size will also depend on the rootstock supplied.

Does a Stella Cherry Tree blossom?

Yes. Stella produces white blossom in spring before developing its cherries later in the growing season.

Delivery & Returns

Free delivery is available on most orders (except Premium Products) providing they meet the minimum spend criteria for the size of box or pallet. Pallet deliveries and large box deliveries for tall plants are indicated by icons on the product table listings. Delivery costs and minimum order details for each packaging type are as follows:

* Standard Sized Boxes (Bare root up to 1.2m tall & pots up to 7.5L) | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £250 | or £9.98 charge.

* Tall Sized Boxes (Bare roots 1.2m & over) | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £250 | or £24.99 charge.

* Pallets (Root balls, large pots 10L+, trees etc | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £350 | or £82 charge.

* Pleached Trees (Specialist Delivery) | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £1500 | or £450 charge.