prunus padus
Noun A small European deciduous tree (Prunus padus) of the rose family, characterized by clusters of fragrant white flowers in spring and small, astringent black fruits. It is closely related to and resembles the North American chokecherry (Prunus virginiana).
Prunus padus is used as the formal botanical name for a specific species of tree. It is primarily used in scientific, horticultural, and botanical contexts.
Examples: - The Prunus padus in the arboretum is in full bloom. - Prunus padus, commonly called the bird cherry, is native to Europe and northern Asia. - The bitter fruits of Prunus padus are seldom eaten by humans.
- In Ecological Contexts: The tree is noted for its importance to wildlife, particularly birds which eat its fruits.
- The dense flowering of Prunus padus provides an early source of nectar for pollinators.
- Common Names: bird cherry, European bird cherry, hagberry, Mayday tree.
- Related Species: (chokecherry), (wild cherry), (black cherry).
- Bird cherry (the most widespread common name in English).
- European bird cherry.
Prunus padus is a binomial Latin name. The first part (Prunus) denotes the genus, which includes cherries, plums, peaches, and almonds. The second part (padus) is the specific epithet for this species.
- small European cherry tree closely resembling the American chokecherry