30 BLACK CHERRY Fruit Tree Prunus Serotina Fragrant White Flowers Seeds

Description:

Name: Black Cherry Tree
Other common names: Mountain Black Cherry, Wild Black Black Cherry, Rum Cherry
Scientific name: Prunus Serotina
Color: White flowers and black cherries
Plant seeds: Fall sow seeds or cold stratify
Bloom time: Flowers April – May
Harvest: Fruit matures in early summer
Hardiness zone: 4 – 8
Plant height: Up to 100 feet
Plant spacing: 30 – 40 feet
Light requirements: Sun to part shade
Soil and water preferences: Average
Quantity: 30 seeds

The Black Cherry Tree is a North American native that features delicious edible fruit. The leaves of this tree are long, glossy, and emit a black cherry scent when crushed. During the fall, the foliage transitions into beautiful shades of yellow, rose, and orange. This tree is recognized for its rapid growth and longevity while also being very ornamental.

In the spring, the tree is adorned with numerous fragrant flowers in drooping clusters, each cluster measuring 4-6 inches in length. As the seasons progress, these flowers give way to fruit that initially appears red and darkens to an almost black, reddish-purple as it matures. The edible black cherries produced are popularly used in jams, pies, wines, and as flavorings for brandy, whiskey, rum, soda, and ice cream.

Additionally, birds and other small wildlife are attracted to the fruit for consumption, while bees and butterflies frequently visit the flowers. The Black Cherry Tree also serves as an excellent habitat for various species.

The wood from the cherry tree is highly valued, particularly used in smoking and grilling foods due to the distinctive flavor it imparts. It is also prized for making expensive red timber furnishings commonly referred to as “cherry” wood furniture.