Cherries (Prunus spp) Cherries have been a popular tree fruit since the days of the Roman Empire. They were brought to North America by both British settlers and Spanish missionaries. These bright, shiny jewels are one of the first fresh fruits of summer whose ripening is eagerly anticipated by both humans and birds! Sweet Cherries (Prunus avium) True to their name, these are the favourites for fresh eating. Unfortunately, they are also the most challenging to grow. Although they are more winter hardy than peaches, arctic winds can beat them up badly. They prefer a reasonably sheltered, well-drained site. Since humid, rainy weather at harvest time can cause cracking in sweet cherries, we have selected varieties that are both crack resistant and cold hardy. 1.25-2m (4-6') bareroot tree