This cherry tree is vigorous, spreading, and cold hardy to zone 5. It is not self-fertile. Summit is in compatibility Group I and as such is incompatible with other Group I cherries (black Tartarian, Tulare). It blooms mid-late in the season and can be pollinated by any other cherry with an overlapping bloom time. We recommend universal pollinators such as WhiteGold®, BlackGold®, and Stardust™. Other possibilities include Ulster, EbonyPearl®, and Hudson. Summit is susceptible to bacterial canker.

Ripening mid-season (a few days before Bing), Summit is really, really large and heart-shaped, with glossy skin that is dark red to black. The flavor is excellent, mild and sweet. The fruit is moderately susceptible to cracking. While Summit is not firm enough for commercial production, its size and outstanding flavor make it an excellent choice for home growers.

Summit originated in 1957 as a cross between Van and Sam by Dr. K. O. Lapins at Agriculture Canada’s Summerland Research Station in British Columbia, Canada. It was selected in 1957 and released as “Summit” in 1973. Dr. Lapins also developed Lapins cherry, and was the first breeder to incorporate self-compatibility into new cherry cultivars.