Cherry rootstock--cob variety

Abstract

The invention relates to a new and distinct variety of cherry tree useful as a cherry rootstock for supporting ornamental flowering cherry cultivars. The new variety originated as a seedling by crossing Prunus avium L. F299/2 and Prunus pseudocerasus Lind. It has been found that ornamental cherry cultivars, and in particular Yukon, grow more vigorously on the new variety during the first six years than on Prunus avium F12/1 and various inter- and intra-specific hybrids. THe resulting thick trunk formation and the resulting precocious formation of blossoms by the ornamental cherry cultivar are particularly appealing to nurserymen.

I claim: 
     
       1. A new and distinct variety of cherry tree useful as an improved rootstock for ornamental flowering cherry cultivars, substantially as illustrated and described, which when used as such rootstock facilitates more vigorous growth, enhanced blossom formation, and thicker trunk growth during the first six years.