Description
Van is one of the classic Northwest cherries — heavy-bearing, richly flavored, and reliable even in cooler springs. Widely used as a parent variety in modern breeding, Van has quietly shaped the cherry industry for decades.
The cherry is much like the Bing but more tart – Tree bears heavy and is resistant to cracking. Pollinate with Stella, Bing or Lapin.
Overview
- Rich, classic sweet cherry flavor — firm, dark, and full-bodied.
- Dependable cropping — known for consistency year after year.
- Great pollinizer — pairs well with Bing, Rainier, Lapins, and Stella.
- Ideal for fresh eating — also excellent for canning or dehydrating.
Growing Details
Latin Name: Prunus avium
Site and Soil: Well-drained soil; 1/2 day to full day of sun
Hardiness (Temp): -20°F
Bearing Age: 2–3 years after planting
Rootstock: Mazzard — Standard (but grows smaller in Pacific Northwest conditions)
Size at Maturity: 12–15 ft in the PNW
Bloom Time: Mid-spring
Ripening Time: Late June to early July (varies by climate and region)
Yield: Heavy cropping
Pests and Diseases: Monitor for cherry fruit fly, canker, and powdery mildew
USDA Zone: 5–9
Additional Notes
- Van is partially self-fruitful but performs best with another sweet cherry nearby.
- Fruit quality improves with consistent summer watering during establishment.
- Browse all Cherry Trees for complementary pollinizers.
