Description:

Prunus serotina

Other common names: black cherry, rum cherry, wild cherry

Shipping Height: 2-4 feet.

Mature Height: 50-60 ft. It is a moderately long-lived tree, with ages of up to 258 years known.

Soil / Climate: Grows in moist, rich soils, as well as light, sandy soil. Zones: 4-9

Notes: Trees are hardy, fast growing, and long-lived. Leaves are oval with thinly pointed tips. Autumn colors are yellow to orange-red. Flowers are small and white. Fruit bears every 3 to 4 years. Fruit is dark purple, sweet and edible.

Fragrant flowers

bloom in May. Has an almond-like odor when a young twig is scratched. Farmers are recommended to remove any trees that fall in a field containing livestock, because the wilted leaves could poison the animals. The fruit of Prunus serotina is suitable for making jam, cherry pies. They are also a popular flavoring for sodas and used in many ice creams, cooking and smoking foods. Cherry timber is considered the Premier timber for cabinetry.

Wildlife: Fruit is eaten by the mallard, turkey, ruffed grouse, bobwhite, pheasant, many woodpeckers, and a wide variety of others.

Additional information on Prunus serotina can be found by clicking on the following link: USDA / NRCS PLANTS Database.

GROWING ZONES: 4-9 / SUN EXPOSURE: Full sun