Sunburst Cherry Fruit Tree (Prunus avium 'Sunburst')

Sunburst Cherry Tree Description

The Sunburst Cherry tree (Prunus avium ‘Sunburst’) is one of the UK’s most popular sweet cherry varieties, valued for its reliable crops of large, juicy dark red cherries. Ripening in early to mid-summer, the fruit is exceptionally sweet and ideal for fresh eating, desserts, jams, and baking.

A key advantage of the Sunburst Cherry tree is that it is self-fertile, meaning it can produce fruit without requiring another cherry tree for pollination. This makes it an excellent choice for smaller gardens, patios, and home orchards.

In spring, the tree produces masses of attractive white blossom that help attract pollinators and add ornamental interest to the garden before the fruit develops.

Sunburst Cherry trees grow at a moderate rate and thrive in sunny, sheltered positions with well-drained soil. Once established, they are relatively easy to maintain and reward gardeners with dependable harvests year after year.

Ideal for:

• Home orchards
• Kitchen gardens
• Smaller gardens
• Fruit tree collections

Pruning Advice

Prune Sunburst Cherry trees in late summer after harvesting to help reduce the risk of diseases such as silver leaf.

How to prune:

• Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches
• Lightly thin crowded growth to improve airflow and sunlight penetration
• Maintain an open structure for healthier fruit production

Avoid heavy winter pruning, as cherry trees are more vulnerable to disease during colder months.

Further Information

• Self-Fertile Variety: Produces fruit without needing another pollination partner
• Sweet Dark Red Cherries: Large, juicy fruit ideal for eating and cooking
• Spring Blossom: Decorative white flowers provide seasonal interest
• Reliable Cropping: Known for producing consistent harvests
• Low Maintenance: Suitable for beginner and experienced gardeners
• Wildlife Friendly: Blossoms attract pollinators such as bees

Sunburst Cherry trees are especially popular in UK gardens due to their reliable fruiting and easy-growing nature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Sunburst Cherry tree self-fertile?
Yes, Sunburst is a self-fertile cherry variety, meaning it can produce fruit without another cherry tree nearby.

When do Sunburst cherries ripen?
The cherries typically ripen in early to mid-summer, usually around July in the UK.

How tall does a Sunburst Cherry tree grow?
It can reach approximately 4–5 metres in height with a similar spread if left unpruned.

What do Sunburst cherries taste like?
They are known for their large size, sweet flavour, and juicy texture.

Where should I plant a Sunburst Cherry tree?
Plant in a sunny, sheltered location with well-drained soil for the best fruit production.

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.