Black Cherry
Prunus serotina · Deciduous, Broadleaf, Hardwood
Plant Family
Rosaceae
Tree Category
Forest Tree, Fruit, Timber, Ornamental
Variety / Cultivar
Native wild type (no specific cultivar identified)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 3-9; highly adaptable to various climates from cold northern plains to humid southern regions.
About This Tree
A medium to large fast-growing forest tree with a narrow-columnar to rounded crown. Notable for its pendulous clusters of white flowers and small, dark purple-black stone fruits. It is highly valued for its high-quality timber.
Leaf Characteristics
Simple, alternate, oblong-ovate leaves, 2-5 inches long. Finely serrated margins with incurved teeth. Dark shiny green above, paler beneath; turning yellow to orange-red in autumn.
Bark Characteristics
Very distinctive high-identification feature; young bark is smooth with horizontal lenticels. Mature bark (shown) becomes dark gray to nearly black, broken into small, brittle, upturned plates often described as looking like 'burnt cornflakes'.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Eastern North America, from eastern Canada through the eastern United States to Mexico and Guatemala
Growing Season
Leafs out in early spring; flowers in late spring (May); fruits ripen in late summer (August-September); enters dormancy in late autumn.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Prefers full sun for best growth but is moderately shade tolerant when young. Requires well-drained soil; moderate water needs; moderate drought tolerance once established.
Mature Size
Typically reaches 50-80 feet in height with a spread of 30-60 feet. Can grow up to 100 feet in ideal forest conditions. Moderate to fast growth rate.
Special Characteristics
Highly prized for cabinetry and furniture timber. Leaves and twigs contain cyanogenic glycosides which are toxic to livestock. Known for attractive, aromatic wood and showy spring blossoms.
Wildlife & Ecology
Extremely high ecological value; host plant for Eastern Tiger Swallowtail and Red-spotted Purple butterflies. Fruits are a critical food source for dozens of bird species and mammals. Provides nesting sites for various forest birds.