Prunus cocomilia

Prunus cocomilia

Prunus cocomilia, also known as the Italian cherry, is a species of cherry native to southern Italy. It is a member of the Rosaceae family, which includes a wide variety of fruit trees and shrubs.

Description

Prunus cocomilia is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 10-15 meters in height. The leaves are simple, alternate, and have a serrated margin. The flowers, which bloom in spring, are white and arranged in clusters. The fruit is a small, round, red cherry.

Distribution and Habitat

Prunus cocomilia is native to southern Italy, particularly in the regions of Campania, Calabria, and Sicily. It grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, scrublands, and rocky areas.

Cultivation and Uses

Prunus cocomilia is cultivated for its fruit, which is used in a variety of culinary applications. The cherries can be eaten fresh, or used to make jams, jellies, and liqueurs. The wood of the tree is also used in carpentry and furniture making.

Conservation Status

Prunus cocomilia is not currently listed as threatened or endangered. However, like many native species, it faces threats from habitat loss and degradation.

See Also

• Prunus
• Cherry
• Rosaceae

References

• Flora of Italy. (2005). Cambridge University Press.
• The Plant List. (2013). Version 1.1. Published on the Internet; http://www.theplantlist.org/ (accessed 1st January).
• IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Version 2019-2. <www.iucnredlist.org>. Downloaded on 01 January 2020.

External Links

• Prunus cocomilia on Flora Italiana
• Prunus cocomilia on The Plant List