Prunus Avium
Widespread and frequent in hedgerows and woods, especially beech.
A lofty tree, up to 30m (100 ft) figh with shining, reddish-brown bark.
Leaves are alternative, oval sharply toothed. Five white petals; appear in clusters of 2-6 April-May.
Fruit resembles a small, dark-red, cultivated cherry.
A beautiful tree in the spring time, and again in autumn when the leaves turn yellow and red, the fruit of the wild cherr can be either sweet or bitter. It used to be sold occasionally in London on the branch.
Uses
Cherry Brandy
These are the best fruits to use for cherry brandy.
Put as many as you can find in a bottle with a couple of tablesspoons of sugar, and top up with brandy.
After 3-4 months you will have a treat waiting in your larder.
