Prunus pumila: the sand cherry.

Abstract

Prunus pumila L., the sand cherry, is common plant to those accustomed to the sand dunes of Michigan. One often finds it covering the ridge tops of the interdunal ridges and hollows. Often the thick dark brown roots and rhizomes can be seen holding the sand together as wind cuts away at the slope. What is the history of this plant, and how does it contribute to the creation or destruction of the sand dune? How does it reproduce and spread? Why is it seen on Jack Pine plains, but not on the old sand dunes at French Lake? These are some of the questions I have been asking as I traveled around the northern Lower Peninsula and eastern Upper Peninsula looking at P. pumila. In this paper I will discuss my observations and findings. Appendix A consists of my field notes. As I refer to sightings, please consult the field notes for more information. Appendix B consists of a few terms and explanantions.