Black Cherry (Rum Cherry, Mountain Black Cherry)
Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Tracheophyta, Class: Magnoliopsida, Order: Rosales, Family: Rosaceae, Genus: Prunus, Species: Prunus serotina · Rosaceae (Rose family) · Simple, deciduous
Species
Prunus serotina
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous
Family
Rosaceae (Rose family)
Shape
Lanceolate to oblong-lanceolate with an acuminate tip
Size
Approximately 4 inches long and 1.5 inches wide, falling within the typical 2-6 inch range for adult trees
Margin
Finely serrate (toothed) with distinctive tiny incurved teeth
Arrangement
Alternate
Rarity
Very Common
Color & Pattern
Medium to dark green upper surface with a paler underside; features distinctive reddish-brown hairs along the midrib on the lower surface near the base
Venation Pattern
Pinnate venation with a prominent midrib and secondary veins branching outward
Texture & Surface
Smooth and semi-glossy on the upper surface, paler and slightly textured below
Description
Prunus serotina is a medium to large deciduous tree known for its dark, scaly bark resembling burnt corn flakes, drooping clusters of white spring flowers, and astringent dark red to black cherries beloved by wildlife
Key Features
Finely serrated leaf margins, reddish-brown hair fuzz along the underside of the midrib, and bitter almond scent when the twig or leaf is scratched
Habitat
Found in mixed deciduous forests, along fence rows, old fields, and forest edges; prefers moist, rich soils and full to partial sun
Geographic Range
Native to eastern North America, ranging from Nova Scotia west to Minnesota, and south to Florida and Texas
Condition Notes
Pressed herbarium specimen in fair to good condition, showing some minor edge wear and taped attachments typical of student projects
Interesting Facts
The wood of the black cherry is highly prized in fine furniture and cabinetry making due to its rich reddish-brown luster and fine grain
Medicinal & Uses
Bark extracts have been traditionally used in cough syrups and sedatives; the wood is premier lumber for woodworking; fruits are used to make jellies and wines
Ecological Role
Provides vital food sources for dozens of bird species and mammals; host plant for numerous butterfly and moth larvae
Similar Species
Chokecherry (Prunus virginiana), which has broader obovate leaves and a less rounded base, and Peach (Prunus persica) leaves which are longer and more strongly curved
Foraging Tips
Look for the distinctive burnt-corn-flake bark on mature trees and check the base of the leaf undersides for the characteristic rusty hairs
Toxicity Warning
Moderately Toxic to Highly Toxic; wilted leaves contain cyanogenic glycosides that release hydrogen cyanide when ingested by livestock or humans