Black Cherry

All About Black Cherry

Benefits | Landscaping | Leaves | Conditions | Flowers | Attributes | Stem

Black cherry (Prunus serotina) is a fast-growing, deciduous tree belonging to the rose family (Rosaceae). Native to a wide range from western Canada to Guatemala, it thrives in various environments but grows best in mountainous regions. This tree can reach impressive heights of 60 to 80 feet, with a conical shape that gradually develops a scaly bark as it matures. Black cherry prefers full sun, well-drained soil rich in organic matter, and is resistant to deer. Black cherry is a vital host for butterfly larvae and a beautiful addition to natural landscapes.

Echinacea

Benefits of Black Cherry

  • Fast-growing deciduous tree
  • Deer-resistant plant
  • Attracts pollinators
  • Host for butterflies
  • Suitable for shade
  • Works in woodland gardens
  • Great for pollinator gardens

Landscaping

Landscape Location
  • Woodland
Landscape Theme:
  • Butterfly Garden
  • Edible Garden
  • Native Garden
  • Pollinator Garden
Resistance To Challenges
  • Deer
  • Fire

Leaves

Leaf Color
  • Brown/Copper
  • Gold/Yellow
  • Green
Leaf Width
  • 1-3 inches
Leaf Type
  • Simple
Leaf Description
The 3-6 inch long by .75-1.5 inch wide dark green leaves have a cherry fragrance and bitter taste.

Cultural Conditions

Light
  • Full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight a day)
Soil Texture
  • High Organic Matter
  • Loam (Silt)
Soil Drainage
  • Good Drainage
  • Moist
  • Occasionally Dry

Flowers

Flower Color
  • Pink
  • White
Flower Bloom Time
  • Spring
Flower Description
3-6 inches long pendulous racemes of many small fragrant white 5-petaled flowers that appear with the foliage in late April to May.

Stem

Stem Is Aromatic
  • Yes
Stem Description
Sinewy, fluted stems and branches, mottled due to periodic shedding of the bark.

Attributes

Genus
  • Prunus
Family
  • Rosaceae
Life Cycle
  • Woody
Wildlife Value
  • This plant provides nectar for pollinators and is a larval host plant for several species of butterflies.

Other Plants You Might Be Interested In