// SPECIES PROFILE · SHRUB · NATIVE

Western sandcherry

Prunus pumila var. besseyi

Western sandcherry (Prunus pumila var. besseyi) is a shrub in the — family. Native range includes AR, KS. Hardy in zones 2a–9b. Mature size 38"–8'. Blooms Apr–Jun.

// QUICK FACTS

Family: —
Group: shrub
Native range: Native to 32 U.S. states, including AR, CO, CT, DE, IA, IL…
USDA hardiness: Zones 2a–9b
Mature size: 38"–8'
Sun: Part shade
Water: Low · xeric
Bloom: Apr–Jun
Wildlife value: Pollinator and wildlife support
Ecological role: native species profile

Western sandcherry (Prunus pumila var. besseyi) — *Prunus pumila var. besseyi* — Western sandcherry. Photo via iNaturalist — no rights reserved.

Field Notes

[ growing · ecology · siting · care ]

Western sandcherry (Prunus pumila var. besseyi) is a shrub in the — family. Native range includes AR, KS. Hardy in zones 2a–9b. Mature size 38"–8'. Blooms Apr–Jun. Low water use makes it a strong candidate for xeric and drought-conscious plantings.

Why it's on this list: native species profile. Native-range data from the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center (NPIN), cross-checked against iNaturalist observations. Part of Rooted Revival's regional native plant catalog — true natives for Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri and Kansas.

Companion Planting

[ guild · polyculture · cross-layer pairings ]

In the same native range, western sandcherry pairs naturally with: Smooth Sumac (Rhus glabra), Great ragweed (Ambrosia trifida), Texan great ragweed (Ambrosia trifida var. texana), Great ragweed (Ambrosia trifida var. trifida).