The maroon-colored Bing cherry prevails as the most familiar sweet type around, though the Rainier, Queen Anne, and sweetheart varieties are gaining in popularity. 

In Season: This stone fruit -- a relative of plums, peaches, and nectarines -- has a short season, appearing briefly in the produce aisle from June to August.

What to Look For: Choose firm, richly colored cherries with green stems; avoid bruised, soft ones and those with brown stems.

How to Store: Unwashed fruit should keep in your refrigerator for up to a week (wash right before eating, as water can cause the cherry to soften and split).