In many parts of North America, they are among the first tree fruits to ripen.
In the United States, most sweet cherries are grown in Washington, California, Oregon, Wisconsin, and Michigan.Important sweet cherry cultivars include Bing, Brooks, Tulare, King and Rainier. In addition, the Lambert variety is grown on the eastern side of Flathead Lake in northwestern Montana.Both Oregon and Michigan provide light-colored Royal Ann (Napoleon; alternately Queen Anne) cherries for the maraschino cherry process.
Most sour (also called tart) cherries are grown in Michigan, followed by Utah, New York, and Washington.Additionally, native and nonnative cherries grow well in Canada.