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Black cherry

Prunus serotina | Family: Rosaceae

submission: Chrissy McIntire

Identification:

Leaves—

small green leaves with rough edges

Twigs—

very thing green and brown colored

Flowers—

small white flowers

Fruit—

very small round darker colored cherries

Bark—

rough texture, dull gray-brown color

Hover over one of the descriptions to see an example.

picture of leaves picture of bark picture of twigs picture of fruit picture of flowers

 

Natural History:

Lifespan—

On average 100 years.

General description—

These are very large trees and they are the largest of all the cherry trees native to North America. This is a very versatile tree that can grow under a wide variety of climates. This tree is also very sensitive to insects.

Natural distribution and habitat—

They are native to North America and are usually found in the east and the Midwest.

Conservation status—

No serious threats, since it can grow in most soils (despite sensitivity to insects).

Uses—

Used for commercial value such as making furniture. Can also be used for medicinal purposes.

References:

  1. Marquis, David A. “Black Cherry.” Na.fs.fed.us, USDA Forest Service, https://www.na.fs.fed.us/spfo/pubs/silvics_manual/volume_2/prunus/serotina.htm
  2. “Prunus Serotina.” wildflower.org, Lady Bird Johnson Wildlife center, https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=prse2
  3. “How old can a cherry tree's life span be?” sfgate.com, SFGATE, http://homeguides.sfgate.com/old-can-cherry-trees-life-span-be-48143.html

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