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-ovate
Size
Approximately 2 to 6 inches long and 1 to 3 inches wide, typical for the species
Margin
Finely serrate with blunt teeth
Arrangement
Alternate
Rarity
Common
Color & Pattern
Dark green and glossy on the upper surface, paler green on the lower surface with distinctive reddish-brown hairs along the midrib near the base
Venation Pattern
Pinnate with a prominent midrib and primary veins
Texture & Surface
Smooth and glossy above, glabrous to slightly pubescent underneath along the main veins
Description
Prunus serotina, commonly known as the black cherry, is a medium to large deciduous tree known for its dark, scaly bark that resembles burnt cornflakes on mature trunks. It produces drooping clusters of white flowers in spring followed by astringent dark purple-to-black cherries consumed heavily by wildlife.
Key Features
Distinctive dark scaly bark on mature trees, finely serrate leaf margins with tiny glands near the petiole, and reddish-brown hairs on the underside along the lower midrib
Habitat
Deciduous forests, woodland edges, fence rows, and disturbed areas; prefers moist, rich soils and full to partial sun
Geographic Range
Native to eastern North America, ranging from southeastern Canada down through the eastern and central United States to Texas and Florida
Condition Notes
Leaves appear healthy and mature with no visible signs of significant disease, insect damage, or nutrient deficiencies, graded as Good
Interesting Facts
The wood of the black cherry is highly prized for fine furniture and cabinetry due to its rich reddish-brown color and fine grain. The leaves and seeds contain cyanogenic glycosides, which can be toxic to livestock if wilted leaves are ingested.
Medicinal & Uses
Bark extracts have been used traditionally in cough syrups and sedatives. The wood is exceptionally valuable for woodworking. Fruits are used to make jellies, jams, and wine, though they are bitter when raw.
Ecological Role
Serves as an essential host plant for numerous butterfly and moth larvae, and its fruit is a vital food source for dozens of bird and mammal species
Similar Species
Chokecherry (Prunus virginiana), which has sharper, more abruptly pointed leaf tips and more sharply serrated margins
Foraging Tips
Look for the distinctive burnt-cornflake bark on mature trees and the reddish-brown hairs along the underside of the leaf midrib to confirm identification in the field
Toxicity Warning
Mildly to Moderately Toxic; wilted leaves contain cyanogenic glycosides that release hydrogen cyanide when consumed by livestock or pets, posing a serious poisoning risk