Black Cherry (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
Elliptical to lanceolate with an acuminate tip
Size
Approximately 4 inches long and 1.5 inches wide, which falls well within the typical species range of 2 to 6 inches long.
Margin
Serrate (finely toothed with small, incurved teeth)
Arrangement
Alternate arrangement along the twig
Rarity
Very Common
Color & Pattern
Medium to dark green upper surface showing signs of chlorosis and necrosis at the base and margins transitioning into yellow and brown patches. Dark brown spots indicate fungal leaf spot or minor disease stress.
Venation Pattern
Pinnate venation with a prominent central midrib and distinctive small glands near the base of the petiole.
Texture & Surface
Glucous and smooth on the upper surface with a slightly paler, duller underside. Faint hairs may be present along the midrib on the lower surface.
Description
The black cherry is a medium to large deciduous tree known for its dark, scaly bark that resembles burnt cornflakes on mature specimens. In spring, it produces drooping racemes of fragrant white flowers followed by small, astringent dark red to black cherries that are heavily favored by wildlife. The leaves emerge folded, bronze-green, and mature into glossy dark green before turning yellow or red in autumn.
Key Features
Finely serrate leaf margins, a prominent midrib, tiny reddish glands on the petiole or base of the leaf blade, and distinctive dark scaly bark on mature trees.
Habitat
Found in mixed deciduous forests, along woodland edges, fence rows, and abandoned fields. Prefers moist, rich soils and full to partial sun exposure.
Geographic Range
Native to eastern and central North America, ranging from southeastern Canada down through Florida and Texas, and into parts of Mexico and Central America.
Condition Notes
Fair condition. The leaf shows signs of stress, likely late-season senescence combined with fungal leaf spot disease (evident by the dark necrotic lesions and yellowing chlorosis).
Interesting Facts
Black cherry is the largest of the native cherries and produces highly valued reddish-brown hardwood prized for fine furniture, cabinetry, and architectural millwork. The wood emits a distinct aromatic scent when freshly cut.
Medicinal & Uses
Bark extracts have historically been used in traditional medicine as a cough suppressant and sedative. The fruits are used to make jellies, jams, and wine, though the rest of the plant contains cyanogenic glycosides.
Ecological Role
Serves as a crucial host plant for over 400 species of lepidopteran larvae (butterflies and moths). The fruits are a vital food source for dozens of bird and mammal species, which subsequently aid in seed dispersal.
Similar Species
Chokecherry (Prunus virginiana), which has a more abruptly pointed leaf tip and sharply toothed margins, and Pin Cherry (Prunus pensylvanica), which has oblong-lanceolate leaves with more rounded teeth.
Foraging Tips
Look for trees along forest edges with characteristic dark, rough bark. Inspect the base of the leaf blade for tiny dark glands, which are a hallmark identification feature of the Prunus genus.
Toxicity Warning
Moderately Toxic. While the ripe fruit flesh is edible, the leaves, twigs, bark, and seeds contain cyanogenic glycosides (specifically amygdalin), which release hydrogen cyanide when damaged or ingested, posing a significant poisoning hazard to livestock and pets.