Cherry tree named ‘Minnie Royal’

Abstract

A new and distinct variety of cherry tree ( Prunus avium ) that has the following unique combination of features that are desirable in a new variety. The following features of the tree and its fruit are characterized with the tree budded on ‘Mahaleb’ Rootstock (non-patented), grown on Hanford sandy loam soil with Storie Index rating 95, in USDA Hardiness Zone 9, near Modesto, Calif., and with standard commercial cultural fruit growing practices, such as, pruning, thinning, spraying, irrigation and fertilization. 1. Vigorous, upright growth. 2. Early maturity of firm fruit. 3. Heavy and regular production of medium size fruit. 4. Fruit with an attractive red skin color. 5. Fruit with good flavor and eating quality. 6. Early blooming with a low winter chilling requirement of approximately 500 hours at or below 45° F. 7. The ability of the fruit to remain firm on the tree 10 days past maturity (shipping ripe).

We claim:  
     
       1. A new and distinct variety of cherry tree, substantially as illustrated and described, characterized by its large size, vigorous, upright growth, having a low winter chilling requirement of approximately 500 hours at or below 45°, and being a regular and productive bearer of medium size, early maturing fruit; the fruit is also characterized by its firm, crisp flesh with an attractive red skin color, having good handling and shipping qualities, the ability to remain firm on the tree 10 days past maturity, good flavor and eating quality and, in comparison to ‘Early Burlat’ Cherry (non-patented), the new variety blooms approximately 10 days earlier and the fruit is approximately 2 days later in maturity.