Black Cherry (also known as Rum Cherry, Mountain Black Cherry)
Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Tracheophyta, Class: Magnoliopsida, Order: Rosales, Family: Rosaceae, Genus: Prunus, Species: P. serotina · Rosaceae (Rose family) · Simple, deciduous leaf
Species
Prunus serotina
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous leaf
Family
Rosaceae (Rose family)
Shape
Lanceolate to oblong-ovate with an acuminate tip
Size
Approximately 3.5 inches long and 1.5 inches wide, falling well within the typical 2-6 inch range for mature leaves of this species
Margin
Finely serrate with tiny incurved teeth
Arrangement
Alternate along the twig
Rarity
Very Common, frequently encountered in secondary growth forests and rural landscapes across its native range
Color & Pattern
Vibrant medium to dark green on the upper surface with a slightly paler underside; no unusual variegation or markings, presenting a healthy chlorophyll-rich appearance
Venation Pattern
Pinnate venation with a prominent midrib and distinct secondary veins branching out, featuring characteristic tiny reddish-brown hair brushes along the midrib on the underside
Texture & Surface
Glabrous (smooth) and semi-glossy on the upper surface with a smooth matte lower surface
Description
Prunus serotina, the black cherry, is a medium to large deciduous tree known for its dark, scaly bark that resembles burnt cornflakes on mature specimens. It produces showy drooping clusters of fragrant white flowers in spring, followed by dangling clusters of small, dark red to nearly black cherries that are heavily sought after by local wildlife. The foliage transitions from a lush green in summer to yellow or occasionally red in autumn before dropping.
Key Features
Finely serrate leaf margins, distinctive reddish-brown hair fringing the lower midrib, bitter almond scent when twigs or leaves are crushed, and dark, rough bark on mature trees
Habitat
Found in deciduous forests, along woodland edges, fence rows, and disturbed areas; prefers moist, fertile soils but is quite adaptable to various well-draining conditions and moderate to full sun exposure
Geographic Range
Native to eastern North America, ranging from southeastern Canada down through Florida, and westward to Texas and the Great Plains, with subspecies extending into Mexico and Central America
Condition Notes
The leaf is in excellent, healthy condition with intact margins, vibrant green coloration, and no visible signs of pest damage, fungal spots, or nutrient deficiencies
Interesting Facts
Black cherry is the premier commercial hardwood timber species in North America, prized for its rich reddish-brown furniture-grade wood. Its leaves and twigs contain cyanogenic glycosides, which release hydrogen cyanide when damaged, protecting the plant from excessive browsing by herbivores.
Medicinal & Uses
Historically used by Indigenous peoples and early settlers in cough syrups, sedatives, and tonics made from the inner bark. The wood is heavily used for fine cabinetry, architectural millwork, and musical instruments. The fruits are used to make jams, jellies, and cherry bounce liquor, though the pits must be avoided.
Ecological Role
Serves as an essential keystone species supporting hundreds of species of butterfly and moth caterpillars. The fruit is a vital food source for dozens of bird species and mammals, which subsequently act as seed dispersers
Similar Species
Chokecherry (Prunus virginiana), which generally features sharper, more abrupt leaf tips and broader oval shapes, and Pin Cherry (Prunus pensylvanica), which has wider, shiny lanceolate leaves with more prominent rounded teeth
Foraging Tips
Look for trees along forest edges and roadsides. Crush a small piece of twig or leaf to check for the characteristic bitter almond or cyanide scent. Late summer is ideal for harvesting the ripe dark fruit, while spring showcases the cascading white blossom racemes
Toxicity Warning
Moderately to Highly Toxic. Wilted or damaged leaves, twigs, and seeds contain cyanogenic glycosides that release hydrogen cyanide when ingested by livestock or humans, potentially causing severe poisoning or death