Black Cherry
Leaf Characteristics
- broad, flat
- simple
- not lobed
- fine, double teeth
- all teeth same size
- shorter stem
- all side veins same length
- long, not narrow
- veins curved
- less than 5" long
- stem less than 1/3 length of leaf
- short tip, veins not dense
- narrow
Fruit Characteristics
- other fruit (not cone, winged, acorn, or in pod or capsule)
- without husk or capsules
- loose, not packed tightly together
- fruit with pit
- whole fruit less than 1 inch
- fruit without strap-like modified leaf
- not like rasperries
- fruit not at end of single stalk
- loosely clustered
- various colors but leaves not modified
- round, dark red to black
- 0.5" in diameter
- with stone or pit
Black Cherry
Prunus serotina
The tree grows on deep, moist but well-drained, fertile soils. It is found in forests, and also in open fields, second-growth woodlands, and along fence-rows. This is one of the most valuable timber trees in Ohio. Its strong, heavy wood has been used extensively for furniture, veneer, and interior finish. Although small in size, the fruit has been used in making wine and jelly. Many kinds of birds and mammals feed on the prolific fruit.
Tree Size
height 50' - 60'
diameter 1' - 3'
Bark
Flower