Semi Dwarf Sweet Cherry Tree - ‘Bigarreau Napoléon’

Fruit Type: Sweet Cherry
Botanical Name: Prunus avium ‘Bigarreau Napoléon’
Fruit Colour: Pale yellow to orange with red blush
Growth Habit: Semi dwarf deciduous fruit tree grafted onto slow-growing rootstock
Final Height: Approx. 4–5 m
Expected Yield: Approx. 15–30 kg per season once mature
Exposure: Full sun
Soil Type: Fertile, well-drained soil
Pollination: Not self-fertile; compatible pollinators include Early Rivers, Bigarreau Van, Hedelfinger Riesenkirsche, or Sunburst
Hardiness: Hardy to approx. −25°C; blossoms may be sensitive to late spring frost

‘Bigarreau Napoléon’ is a classic sweet cherry variety with a long tradition in European gardens and orchards. It is valued for its large fruit, distinctive colouring, and balanced flavour, making it a dependable choice for gardeners who appreciate traditional sweet cherries.

This variety produces large cherries with pale yellow to orange skin that often develops a red blush where exposed to the sun. The flesh is firm and juicy with a pleasantly sweet, well-balanced flavour. Harvest typically takes place in mid to late summer depending on seasonal warmth and local conditions.

This cherry grows as a semi dwarf fruit tree, remaining more manageable than traditional full-sized cherry trees while still producing generous yields. The controlled size is achieved through grafting onto a slow-growing rootstock, a technique widely used in professional orchards to regulate tree height and support consistent fruit production.

In spring the tree produces abundant white blossoms that attract bees and other pollinators, creating an attractive ornamental display before the leaves fully develop.

‘Bigarreau Napoléon’ is not self-fertile and requires a compatible sweet cherry variety nearby for reliable pollination and fruit set. Suitable pollinators from our assortment include Early Rivers, Bigarreau Van, Hedelfinger Riesenkirsche, and Sunburst.

Sweet cherries thrive in sunny positions with fertile, well-drained soil. A warm, sheltered location with good air circulation supports healthy growth and proper fruit development.

We select our fruit trees with winter hardiness in mind, ensuring suitability for reliable outdoor cultivation in our climate.

For gardeners seeking a sweet cherry with classic flavour, attractive summer fruit, and established garden tradition, ‘Bigarreau Napoléon’ remains a rewarding and time-honoured choice.

All trees are sold and delivered as 2–3 year old trees, similar to those supplied to commercial orchards, in jute bags filled with rich Dutch soil, depending on availability and variety.