Cherry Whitegold Semidwarf 7 gallon

🍒 WhiteGold® Cherry Overview

WhiteGold is a self-fertile, sweet cherry variety with yellowish skin and blushes of red or pink, and light-colored flesh. It stands out among sweet cherries for its attractive appearance, early bloom, and cold hardiness.

🌱 Origin & Background

• Developed by: Cornell University’s Geneva Experiment Station (New York State Agricultural Experiment Station).

• Released: Early 2000s.

• Parentage: A hybrid of Emperor Francis (a yellow cherry) × Stella (a self-fertile red cherry).

• Type: Prunus avium (sweet cherry).

• Part of the same breeding program that developed BlackGold.

🎨 Appearance

• Skin Color: Yellow with a bright pink to red blush — similar in look to Rainier cherries.

• Flesh: Creamy white to pale yellow, firm and juicy.

• Size: Medium-sized fruit, round and uniform.

🍬 Flavor & Texture

• Taste: Very sweet, with mild acidity — a rich, fruity flavor with floral notes.

• Texture: Firm, smooth, and juicy.

• Aroma: Light and fragrant, with hints of honey or vanilla.

🌼 Tree Characteristics

• Bloom Time: Early, which can be a concern in frost-prone areas — use frost protection if needed.

• Pollination: Self-fertile — no need for a second tree to produce fruit.

• Cold-Hardiness: Quite hardy, suitable for USDA zones 5–7.

• Vigor: Moderately vigorous tree, manageable in size, and good for home orchards.

• Disease Resistance: Good resistance to cracking and bacterial canker.

🧁 Best Uses

• Fresh eating: Beautiful and delicious straight off the tree.

• Fruit salads: Adds bright color and sweetness.

• Desserts: Great in tarts, clafoutis, or cherry compote.

• Canning/Preserves: Makes a sweet, golden jam.

• Freezing: Pits easily and freezes well for long-term storage.