Semi Dwarf Sour Cherry Tree - ‘Griotte du Nord’

Fruit Type: Sour Cherry
Botanical Name: Prunus cerasus ‘Griotte du Nord’
Fruit Colour: Deep red
Growth Habit: Semi dwarf deciduous fruit tree grafted onto slow-growing rootstock
Final Height: Approx. 4–5 m
Expected Yield: Approx. 10–25 kg per season once mature
Exposure: Full sun
Soil Type: Fertile, well-drained soil
Pollination: Self-fertile
Hardiness: Winter hardy to approx. −25°C; blossoms may be sensitive to late spring frost

Sour cherry trees are a valuable addition to the garden, and ‘Griotte du Nord’ is a classic variety appreciated for its rich flavour and reliable fruiting. It combines beautiful spring blossom with a productive summer harvest.

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 a striking ornamental display before the leaves fully emerge.

By mid summer the tree produces deep red sour cherries with a bright, tangy flavour. These fruits are particularly valued for baking, jams, compotes, syrups, and traditional desserts where their natural acidity adds depth and balance.

‘Griotte du Nord’ is self-fertile, meaning it can produce fruit without requiring a second cherry tree nearby, although additional cherry trees in the area may help increase overall yields.

Sour cherries thrive in sunny locations with fertile, well-drained soil. An open position with good air circulation supports healthy growth and helps reduce the risk of disease.

Compared with many sweet cherry varieties, sour cherries are often more tolerant of cooler climates and are valued for their reliable performance in temperate gardens.

With proper care and placement, ‘Griotte du Nord’ becomes a productive and long-lived fruit tree, rewarding gardeners with generous harvests of flavourful cherries.

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.