A new and distinct variety of cherry tree. The following features of the
tree and its fruit are characterized with the tree budded on `Mahaleb`
Rootstock (non-patented), grown on Handford sandy loam soil with Storie
Index rating 95, in USDA Hardiness Zone 9, near Modesto, Calif., with
standard commercial fruit growing practices, such as pruning, thinning,
spraying, irrigation and fertilization. Its novelty consist of the
following combination of desirable features: 1. A low chilling
requirement of approximately 500 hours at or below 45.degree. F. 2. Fruit
maturing in the early season. 3. Fruit with an attractive red skin color.
4. Fruit with very good flavor and eating quality. 5. The ability of the
fruit to remain firm on the tree 7 days past maturity. 6. Heavy and
regular production of large size fruit.