Sweet Cherry 'Lapins'

'Lapins' is a standout sweet cherry for UK gardeners, largely because it is self-fertile, eliminating the need for a second tree. Developed in Canada but highly successful in Britain, it produces large, glossy, dark red (almost black) cherries that are remarkably sweet and split-resistant. The fruit is firm and juicy, ripening in late July. The tree has an upright, slightly spreading habit and provides a stunning floral display of white blossoms in late spring. It is a vigorous grower but can be easily maintained on a Gisela 5 dwarfing rootstock. Like most cherries, it requires a sunny, sheltered spot to protect the fruit from heavy rain and late frosts. It is hardy to H6 but benefits from bird netting as the fruit ripens. Its reliable cropping and high-quality fruit make it one of the most popular garden cherries.

Sun: Full sun.

Soil: Well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil.

Hardiness: H6 — down to −20°C.

Flowering: Apr, May.