Prunus serotina, commonly known as black cherry or wild cherry, is a deciduous tree native to North America. Here's a description:
Appearance: Black cherry is a medium to large-sized tree that typically grows to heights of 15 to 30 meters (50 to 100 feet) tall, although it can sometimes reach even greater heights under optimal conditions. It has a straight trunk with smooth, dark gray bark when young, which becomes rough and scaly with age.
Leaves: The leaves of Prunus serotina are simple, alternate, and ovate to lanceolate in shape, with finely serrated margins. They are typically 5 to 10 centimeters (2 to 4 inches) long and dark green in color, turning yellow to reddish-orange in the fall before dropping.
Flowers: Black cherry produces clusters of small, white flowers in early to mid-spring, usually before the leaves emerge. The flowers have five petals and are arranged in elongated racemes.
Fruit: The fruit of Prunus serotina is a small, spherical drupe that ripens from green to red and finally to dark purple or black in late summer to early fall. The cherries are sweet and juicy, although they have a bitter flavor if eaten fresh due to the presence of cyanogenic glycosides.
Habitat: Black cherry is a common and widespread tree species found in a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, fields, and disturbed areas. It thrives in well-drained soil and is often found on mesic sites.
Ecological Importance: Black cherry is an important component of many forest ecosystems, providing food and habitat for a variety of wildlife species. The fruit is consumed by birds and mammals, which help disperse the seeds. Additionally, the leaves are food for various caterpillars and insects.
Uses: Prunus serotina has a long history of human use. The wood is valued for its strength, hardness, and beautiful grain, making it popular for use in furniture, cabinetry, and woodworking. The fruit can be used to make jams, jellies, and pies, although caution must be taken to properly process it to remove the toxic compounds.
Growing Instructions
1. Cold stratify the seeds for 3-4 months in moist sand.
2. Sow the seeds in containers with a mixture of potting soil and sand or vermiculite. The
containers should have drainage holes in the bottom.
3. Water the seeds and keep the soil moist but not wet.
4. When the seedlings are a few inches tall, they can be transplanted outdoors.