Black Cherry
Prunus serotina

Summary
Black Cherry (Prunus serotinus) is a hardy, widespread native tree with many virtues. Long , white, sweetly scented floral racemes provide an abundance of pollen and nectar in spring. Shiny green leaves change to brilliant shades of yellow and red in the fall, and its small fruits (though unpalatable to humans) are eagerly consumed by many birds. . Its lustrous wood is prized as a source of veneers for floors and cabinets. In addition to this list of accomplishments, it’s also the host plant for many gorgeous moths and butterflies—including an SBG favorite, the eastern tiger swallowtail.
More Details
FAMILY
Rosaceae (Rose)
BLOOM TIME
Elongate cluster of small flowers appearing in spring after the leaves are fully expanded
FLOWER
White
MATURE SIZE
Upright tree to 100 feet or more with a narrow or broadly rounded crown
LIGHT REQUIREMENT
Full sun to shade
SOIL CONDITIONS
Moist or dry
NATIVE STATUS
PA Native
Ecosystem Connections
As a keystone tree, the genus Prunus hosts over 450 types of lepidopteran larvae, including tiger swallowtail, viceroy, red-spotted purple, painted lady, coral hairstreak, woodland elfin and spring azure butterflies, and promethea, cecropia, wild cherry sphinx, and small-eyed sphinx moths. The floral racemes are pollinated by bees, and the fruits are an important source of food for wildlife.