PRUNUS SEROTINA / BLACK CHERRY

PRUNUS SEROTINA / BLACK CHERRY

A Tall Native Tree with Fragrant Flowers and Valuable Wildlife Habitat

Prunus serotina, commonly known as Black Cherry, is a large native deciduous tree valued for its elegant form, fragrant white flower clusters, and small dark cherries that are an important food source for wildlife. Blooming in late spring, Black Cherry thrives in full sun to partial shade with well-drained soils. Its ecological importance and stately presence make it an excellent choice for naturalized landscapes, restoration projects, and large properties.

Why Choose Black Cherry?

Fragrant Spring Blooms: Long racemes of white flowers in late spring.
Wildlife Friendly: Fruits support birds and mammals; host plant for many native butterflies and moths.
Large Shade Tree: Provides canopy and structure in expansive landscapes.
Adaptable & Hardy: Performs well in a variety of soil conditions.

Key Features:

Foliage Color: Glossy dark green leaves turning yellow to red in fall.
Flower Color: White, fragrant flowers in elongated clusters.
Fruit: Small, dark purple to black cherries in late summer.
Bark Interest: Dark, scaly bark with a distinctive “burnt potato chip” texture on mature trees.
Height and Spread: Typically grows 50–80 feet tall and 30–50 feet wide.
Hardiness: Hardy to USDA Zones 3–9.
Sunlight: Prefers full sun to partial shade.
Soil Requirements: Well-drained soils; tolerates sandy and loamy sites.

Specifications:

Plant Size: 50–80 feet tall, 30–50 feet wide.
Growth Habit: Upright deciduous tree with rounded to irregular crown.
Hardiness: USDA Zones 3–9.
Flowering: Late spring.
Fruit Production: Late summer; highly valuable for wildlife.

Ideal Uses:

Wildlife & Native Plantings: Supports a wide range of birds, insects, and mammals.
Restoration & Reforestation: Excellent for ecological projects.
Shade & Specimen Trees: Best suited for large landscapes and parks.
Naturalized Areas: Adds structure and biodiversity.

Black Cherry is an ecologically significant native tree. Its fragrant flowers, wildlife value, and strong growth make it an outstanding choice for naturalized landscapes, restoration efforts, and large-scale native plantings.