When Are Black Tartarian Cherries Ripe?

Facts

• The botanical term for the black Tartarian cherry tree is Prunus avium. Other sweet cherry trees are Bing, Ranier, Lambert and Queen Anne, which is sometimes called Royal Anne or Napoleon. The tree grows best in cooler climates, such as the Pacific Northwest; the U.S. Department of Agriculture classifies its hardiness zones as 5 through 8. In April, the tree blooms with pink and white flowers and green foliage while budding of its cherry fruit first appears.

Fruit

• After the bloom of its flowers in April, the black Tartarian cherry tree nurtures its fruit (cherries) which ripen to a large (approximately 1 inch) heart shape and dark wine color in late June. Once picked, the color darkens to a deep purple or almost black, and the flesh can be just as dark. The cherries grow in clusters on stems which are often conjoined and contain pits that separate from the flesh easily when ripe.

Uses

• Black Tartarian cherries are large and sweet, making them a delicious choice to eat fresh off the tree. Sometimes referred to as a "dessert cherry," the black Tartarian is both decorative and delicious as a fresh fruit dessert with or without topping and as a topping for desserts, such as ice cream, sorbet, cakes, pies and other confections. They are also pretty and sweet as beverage garnishes. In addition to their sweetness, black Tartarian cherries have a hint of acidity, which makes them an ideal cherry to use as ingredients for pies, jams and jellies.

Benefits

• Though not yet scientifically proved by the USDA, the health benefits of cherries in general, and sweet cherries in particular, have been long believed to include cancer prevention and risk reduction of cardiovascular disease, diabetes and Alzheimer's. According to the National Cherry Growers and Industries Foundation, cherries contain fiber, vitamin C, carotenoids, anthocyanins, potassium, quercetin and melatonin.