Black Cherry

Prunus serotina, commonly known as the black cherry, rum cherry, or mountain black cherry, is a deciduous tree belonging to the rose family, Rosaceae. Native to eastern and central North America, this large tree is renowned for its valuable reddish-brown timber, which is heavily utilized in fine woodworking and cabinetry. In the spring, it produces cascading clusters of fragrant white flowers that attract numerous pollinators, followed by small dark red to black drupes in late summer. These fruits are a vital food source for a wide variety of wildlife, including birds and mammals. Additionally, the bark and leaves have historically been used in traditional herbal remedies, though caution is required due to cyanogenic compounds found in certain parts of the plant.