Black Cherry
Prunus serotina · Deciduous, Broadleaf, Hardwood
Plant Family
Rosaceae
Tree Category
Flowering, Fruit, Shade, Forest Tree
Variety / Cultivar
Wild Type
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 3 through 9. Highly adaptable to various climates within these regions.
About This Tree
A medium-to-large forest tree with an oval or oblong crown. In forest settings, it develops a long, straight trunk, while in open areas, it is more spreading. It is known for its showy white flowers arranged in drooping cylindrical clusters (racemes) and its distinctive 'burnt cornflakes' bark at maturity.
Leaf Characteristics
Simple, alternate leaves; 2 to 5 inches long; narrowly oval to lance-shaped with finely serrated margins. Foliage is glossy dark green above and lighter green below, turning vibrant yellow, orange, or reddish-brown in autumn. Features small reddish glands on the petiole near the leaf base.
Bark Characteristics
On young trees, bark is smooth, thin, and reddish-brown with prominent horizontal lenticels. At maturity, it becomes very dark (near black) and highly fragmented into small, brittle, upturned scales often described as looking like burnt cornflakes.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Eastern North America, from eastern Canada through the eastern United States into Mexico and Guatemala.
Growing Season
Bud break and leafing out occur in early spring; flowers bloom from late spring to early summer; fruits ripen in late summer to early autumn; enters dormancy in late autumn after leaf fall.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Prefers full sun for best flowering and fruiting but is moderately shade tolerant when young. Requires well-drained soil; has moderate water needs and possesses good drought tolerance once established.
Mature Size
Typically reaches 50-80 feet in height with a spread of 30-50 feet. It is a fast-growing tree with a lifespan of 150-250 years.
Special Characteristics
Produces high-value timber used in fine furniture and cabinetry. Flowers are highly attractive to pollinators. The fruit is edible to humans (though the seeds and wilted leaves contain cyanogenic glycosides and are toxic) and is often used in jellies or 'cherry bounce.'
Wildlife & Ecology
Highly valuable to wildlife; the small black drupes provide food for over 30 species of birds and numerous mammals including bears and raccoons. It is a host plant for several Lepidoptera species, including the Eastern Tiger Swallowtail and the Cecropia Moth.