Black Cherry, Wild Black Cherry, Mountain Black Cherry
Kingdom: Plantae; Division: Magnoliophyta; Class: Magnoliopsida; Order: Rosales; Family: Rosaceae; Genus: Prunus; Species: Prunus serotina · Rosaceae (Rose family) · Simple, deciduous
Species
Prunus serotina (High confidence based on unique leaf margination)
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous
Family
Rosaceae (Rose family)
Shape
Elliptical to oblong-lanceolate with an acute or acuminated tip
Size
Estimated 3-5 inches long and 1-2 inches wide, which falls within the typical species range of 2-6 inches long.
Margin
Finely serrate with unique incurved teeth (inflexed), tipped with minute glandular callosities.
Arrangement
Alternate along the stem; petiole often features small glands near the blade base.
Rarity
Very Common; ubiquitous in its native range and frequently colonizing disturbed sites.
Color & Pattern
Bright vibrant green on the upper surface with a slightly paler underside; turns yellow to orange-red in autumn. This specimen shows a healthy, consistent green hue.
Venation Pattern
Pinnate venation with a prominent midrib and secondary veins that curve slightly toward the apex (arcuate).
Texture & Surface
Smooth (glabrous) and glossy/shiny on the upper surface; may have fine brownish hairs along the midrib on the lower surface.
Description
A medium to large deciduous tree known for its dark, 'burnt potato chip' textured bark in maturity. The leaves are glossy and narrow compared to other cherries. It produces small, white, five-petaled flowers in drooping racemes, followed by small dark purple drupes (fruits).
Key Features
The most distinguishing features are the finely serrated margins with tiny incurved teeth and the presence of two small reddish glands on the petiole just below the leaf base.
Habitat
Thrives in a wide variety of soils but prefers moist, fertile, well-drained sites. Found in deciduous forests, old fields, and edges of woods.
Geographic Range
Native to North and Central America, from eastern Canada through the eastern United States into Mexico and Guatemala.
Condition Notes
The leaf appears healthy with a high health grade of Excellent. No significant insect damage, chlorosis, or fungal rust is visible.
Interesting Facts
The wood is highly prized for high-end furniture and cabinetry due to its warm reddish-brown color and fine grain. The fruit is historically used to flavor 'Cherry Bounce' brandy.
Medicinal & Uses
Bark contains hydrocyanic acid and has been used in cough syrups as a sedative/expectorant. However, caution is required due to cyanide content. The wood is widely used for veneer and paneling.
Ecological Role
High wildlife value; the fruits are a critical food source for over 30 species of birds and many mammals. It is also a larval host for Eastern Tiger Swallowtail butterflies.
Similar Species
Chokecherry (Prunus virginiana) which has wider leaves and sharper teeth; Pin Cherry (Prunus pensylvanica) which has even narrower leaves and more orange-colored bark.
Foraging Tips
In late summer, look for the dark fruiting racemes. Crush a twig; it should have a distinctive 'bitter almond' or maraschino cherry scent which is a classic diagnostic clue.
Toxicity Warning
Highly Toxic (cyanogenic glycosides). Except for the fleshy part of the fruit, all parts of the plant (seeds, bark, wilted leaves) are toxic and can cause cyanide poisoning if consumed.