Himalayan Cherry
Prunus cerasoides
Observed in Kirinyaga County on the southern slopes of Mt. Kenya, 01 June 2017. Many, many sunbirds and also others such as this Common Bulbul swarm the tree when the flowers are open.
TREE: Under ideal conditions Himalayan Cherry reaches massive proportions of 15m in height or more.
LEAVES: The alternate, elliptical leaves are shiny and have serrated margins.
FLOWERS: Pink flowers with five petals and numerous stamens set upon a distinct rim
(hypanthium).
FRUIT: Single seeded drupe.
RANGE: Native to mountainous regions of southern Asia, it has been propagated in the montane habitats of Kenya.
It was seen to be reproducing freely and spreading in the Mt. Kenya region.
