Black Cherry (Rum Cherry, Mountain Black Cherry)
Prunus serotina · Rosaceae (Rose family)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous
Shape
Lanceolate to oblong-ovate
Margin
Serrate (finely toothed with tiny, incurved teeth)
Arrangement
Alternate
Venation
Pinnate with a prominent yellowish midrib and secondary veins branching out at regular intervals. Distinct tiny reddish-brown glands are often visible near the base of the petiole/leaf junction.
Key Features
Finely serrate leaf margins with tiny incurved teeth, the presence of small reddish glands near the base of the leaf blade, and rough, scaly dark bark on mature trees.
Description
Prunus serotina, commonly known as the Black Cherry, is the largest native cherry in North America. It grows into a medium to large deciduous tree featuring distinctive dark, flaky bark that resembles burnt cornflakes on mature trunks. In spring, it produces lovely drooping racemes of fragrant white flowers, followed by drooping clusters of small dark red to black cherries that are highly favored by wildlife.
Habitat
Found in mixed hardwood forests, along fence rows, forest edges, and disturbed areas. Prefers moist, rich soils and full to partial sun exposure.
Native Range
Native to eastern and central North America, stretching from southeastern Canada down through Florida and into parts of Texas and Mexico.