Rainier Cherry

Rainier Cherry

  • Distinctive yellow skin with red blush
  • Very sweet, honey-vanilla flavor
  • Low acid, delicate texture
  • Premium, high-value cherry
  • Requires pollinizer (not self-fertile)

Botanical Name: Prunus avium
Format: Grafted cherry tree

Rainier Cherry is a premium yellow-red sweet cherry valued for delicate flavor and attractive blush color. Developed in Washington State, Rainier cherries are instantly recognizable: yellow skin with a bright red blush. The flesh is pale yellow, very sweet, and exceptionally flavorful – often described as having honey-vanilla notes. Rainier is less acidic than dark cherries and is considered a delicacy. The fruit is softer than Bing and bruises easily, so careful handling is required. Market as a high-end fruit tree for cooler regions. Rainier is not self-fertile – plant with a compatible pollinizer (Bing, Van, or Black Tartarian).

Taste note: Very sweet, honey-vanilla notes, low acid – exceptionally delicate flavor.

Key Highlights
Feature Details
Light Full Sun
Tree Spacing 18–22 ft
Tree Height 15–20 ft (standard)
Planting Time Spring (bare-root) or fall (potted)
Hardiness USDA Zones 5–8
Grafting Yes
Fruit Season Early to mid-June
Self-fertile No – requires pollinizer

Rainier requires the same conditions as Bing: full sun, well-drained soil, and winter chilling (700+ hours). It is more cold-hardy than Bing but also more delicate in fruit handling. Bird protection is absolutely essential – birds love Rainier cherries. Netting is required. Prune in late winter to maintain open center. Fertilize in early spring with low-nitrogen fertilizer. Rainier trees are somewhat less vigorous than Bing, so they are a good choice for smaller yards (but still require a pollinizer).

  1. Remove Packaging– Unpack carefully.
  2. Check the Soil– Keep roots moist.
  3. Adjustment Period– Plant immediately.
  • Location: Full sun, protected from wind (delicate fruit).
  • Soil & Drainage: Well-drained, sandy loam.
  • Feeding: Low-nitrogen fertilizer in early spring.
  • Watering: Consistent moisture during fruit development.
  • Pruning: Late winter.
  • Bird protection: Netting required.

Harvest when the yellow skin has a strong red blush and fruit is sweet. Handle extremely gently – the fruit bruises with the slightest pressure. Rainiers are best eaten fresh. They do not can or freeze as well as dark cherries.

Rainier cherry trees shipped. Free shipping over $50.

📧 info@globalflora.org

Global Flora sources grafted citrus from registered, disease-tested nurseries. All plants are non-GMO.

  • Zones:5–8. Not suitable for warm climates (zone 9+).
  • Pollination:Plant with Bing, Van, or Black Tartarian.