Black Cherry
Prunus serotina · Deciduous hardwood
Plant Family
Rosaceae
Tree Category
Shade Tree, Forest Tree, Native
Variety / Cultivar
Wild type species (no specific named cultivar)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 3 to 9
About This Tree
A medium to large deciduous tree with a straight trunk, spreading crown, and dark, scaly bark at maturity
Leaf Characteristics
Simple, alternate leaves, oblong-lanceolate, 2 to 6 inches long, finely serrated margins, shiny dark green above and paler beneath
Bark Characteristics
Young bark is smooth with prominent horizontal lenticels, developing dark gray to black scaly plates or chunks resembling burnt cornflakes as the tree matures
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to North America, widely distributed across the eastern and central United States and parts of Canada
Growing Season
Leafs out in mid-spring, produces white flower racemes in late spring followed by red-to-black fruits in late summer, drops leaves in autumn
Sunlight & Water Needs
Prefers full sun to partial shade, moderate watering needs, and adapts well to various well-drained soils with fair drought tolerance once established
Mature Size
Reaches 50 to 80 feet in height with a 35 to 60 foot spread, fast growth rate, and a lifespan of 100 to 150 years
Special Characteristics
Valuable timber used for fine furniture and cabinetry, striking fall foliage ranging from yellow to red, and edible dark fruits used in jams
Wildlife & Ecology
Highly valuable to wildlife, providing food for numerous bird species and mammals via its fruit, supporting pollinators with its flowers, and serving as a major host plant for various moth and butterfly larvae