Cherry Kristin Semidwarf

Kristin Semidwarf Cherry

Prunus avium ‘Kristin’ (Kristin Sweet Cherry — Semidwarf)
A cold-hardy sweet cherry cultivar developed at Geneva, New York, known for its large, dark burgundy (“black oxheart”) cherries with rich, sweet flavor — excellent for fresh eating and culinary use. Trees are often grafted onto semidwarf rootstocks (like Colt or Gisela types), keeping them smaller and easier to manage in home orchards and small garden spaces. ‘Kristin’ is hardy, vigorous, and productive, but still typically requires cross-pollination with another compatible sweet cherry.

Size:



Width: ~10–14 ft (semidwarf mature spread)



Height: ~10–15 ft (semidwarf mature height)



Zones: 4–8

Light: Full sun (6 + hrs/day)

Soil: Moist, well-drained soils

Features:



Fruit: Large, glossy dark burgundy cherries with firm, juicy flesh and sweet, aromatic flavor



Flowers: White spring blossoms that attract pollinators



Form: Upright, broadly spreading semidwarf fruit tree with balanced canopy and moderate vigor



Productive and cold-hardy; fruit ripens mid to late summer



Attracts: Pollinators during bloom; birds to fruit (protect with netting)

Uses: Home orchards, edible landscapes, backyard fruit production

Notes:
• ‘Kristin’ requires cross-pollination with another sweet cherry variety nearby for reliable fruit set.
• Trees on semidwarf rootstocks are easier to prune and harvest while still producing abundant fruit.

Plant type

Fruit Tree

Height

12-15'

Width

10-14'

Hardiness zones

4–8

Sunlight

Full Sun

Bloom time

Spring

Flower color

White

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Yellow

Attracts

Bees, Birds

Soil

Moist well-drained

Landscape use

Fruit

Shape

Broad Upright

Fruit

Yes

Fragrant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No