Black Cherry
Prunus serotina · Deciduous, Broadleaf, Hardwood
Plant Family
Rosaceae
Tree Category
Forest Tree, Fruit, Timber, Shade Tree
Variety / Cultivar
Wild type (Prunus serotina var. serotina)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 3a through 9b; highly adaptable to a wide range of temperate climates.
About This Tree
A medium-to-large forest tree typically reaching 50 to 80 feet in height with an oblong to rounded crown. Known for its distinct reddish-brown, scaly bark reminiscent of 'burnt cornflakes' on mature trunks, and valuable fine-grained reddish heartwood.
Leaf Characteristics
Simple, alternate, oblong-lanceolate leaves 2 to 5 inches long with finely serrated margins. Dark glossy green above, paler beneath with reddish-brown hairs along the midrib near the base. Leaves turn brilliant yellow to orange-red in autumn.
Bark Characteristics
Dark grayish-black to reddish-brown bark that breaks into distinctive small, thick, scaly plates with upturned edges on older trees, giving a dark 'cornflake' texture. Young bark is smooth and reddish-brown with prominent horizontal lenticels.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Eastern North America, ranging from Nova Scotia south to Florida and west to Minnesota and Texas
Growing Season
Leafs out in early spring (April), flowers May to June, fruits ripen in late summer (August-September), enters dormancy in late autumn.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. Prefers moist, well-drained, deep fertile soils, but displays moderate drought tolerance once established.
Mature Size
Height of 50-80 feet (up to 100+ feet in optimal conditions), spread of 30-60 feet, fast growth rate when young, living up to 150-250 years with trunk diameters reaching 2-4 feet.
Special Characteristics
Highly prized timber tree used for fine furniture and cabinetry due to rich reddish heartwood. Contains cyanogenic glycosides in wilted leaves/twigs (toxic to livestock). Very popular for wood turning and smoking meats.
Wildlife & Ecology
Exceptional ecological value; fruit feeds dozens of bird species, mammals like bears, raccoons, and foxes. Hosts over 450 species of native caterpillars, including Eastern Tiger Swallowtail and Viceroy butterflies.