Type
tart, self-fruitful, dwarf
Cherry variety
North Star Cherry
A compact, cold-hardy sour cherry tree with bright red tart fruit. Its smaller size makes netting and harvest easier in home gardens.
Season
early to mid summer
Best for
small spaces, baking, and cold climates
About North Star
North Star is a naturally dwarf sour cherry with dark red, tart fruit suited to pies and preserves. It is valued for compact size, cold hardiness, and self-fertility.
Growing North Star Cherry
North Star is self-fertile and is well suited to smaller gardens, usually remaining much smaller than standard sweet cherry trees. Prune after harvest to maintain shape and watch for leaf spot, removing fallen leaves to reduce disease carryover.
Full growing guide
For planting, care, pollination, and harvest that apply to all cherry, see the complete guide.
How to grow CherryOther cherry varieties
Variety characteristics are general guidance for US home gardens; chill hours, hardiness, and pollination vary, so confirm suitability for your zone. Availability differs by supplier. Page updated Aug 4, 2026.