Title

Black Cherry

(F2136, June 2024)
File
Publication File:
Lead Author
Lead Author:
Joseph Zeleznik, Ph.D., Extension Forester
Availability
Availability:
Web only
Publication Sections

Table of Contents

General
Scientific Name: Prunus serotina
Family: Rosaceae (Rose)
Hardiness: Zone 3
Leaves: Deciduous
Plant Type: Tree

Growth
Rate: Medium
Mature Height: 50-80’
Longevity: Long
Power Line: No

Ornamental
Flowers: White
Fruit: Drooping clusters of small purple-black cherries
Fall Color: Yellow to rose

Description

Most noted for its profuse spring bloom, the black cherry also has attractive summer foliage and fall color. One of the largest of the cherry trees, the fruits are inedible straight off the tree, but can be used to make jams and jellies. Fruits are attractive to wildlife. Native to Eastern North America.

Preferences

Light: Part shade.
Water: Medium to high water use.
Soil: Best grown in moist, fertile loam soils.

Comments

Native Americans prepared decoctions of inner bark for cough medicines and tea-like cold remedies. Hard, reddish-brown wood takes a fine polish and is commercially valued for use in a large number of products such as furniture, veneers, cabinets, interior paneling, gun stocks, instrument/tool handles and musical instruments. Species name comes from the Latin word for “late” in reference to the late flowering and fruiting in comparison to other cherry varieties. Potentially susceptible to black rot canker.

Black Cherry
Photo Credit:
Joseph Zeleznik, Ph.D., Extension Forester
Black Cherry
Black Cherry
Photo Credit:
Joseph Zeleznik, Ph.D., Extension Forester
Black Cherry
Black Cherry
Photo Credit:
Joseph Zeleznik, Ph.D., Extension Forester
Black Cherry