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.

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