Unique Features: This cherry originated in France in the 1600’s in the Montmorency valley. It has been cultivated in the U.S. since the early 1900’s and now accounts for 95% of the sour cherry production.  Being a sour cherry, it is self-fertile. However, planting two or more will increase each tree’s production. Montmorency cherries have a low enough sugar content that they stay quite tart even when fully ripe, but the flavor is considered the best for pies, preserves and baking.  The cherries are a light, bright red with firm yellow flesh that yields a clear tart juice when pressed. Besides the nutrition value of the juice (and the dried fruit) it is credited with several health benefits including the reduction of inflammation.  However, if you want to use the fruit it will need to be protected from the birds. There are various bird ‘frighteners’ and ‘distractors’ but netting is the best deterrent.