black cherry

plant

Also known as: Prunus serotina

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Last updated

July 16, 2026

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Black cherry, scientifically known as Prunus serotina, is a large cherry tree native to eastern and central North America. It produces drooping clusters of small white flowers and yields astringent black or dark purple fruits, also called black cherries. The strong, reddish-brown wood of the black cherry tree is highly valued for cabinetwork and fine furniture due to its resistance to shrinkage and warping.12

Cherries, in general, belong to the genus Prunus and are known for their edible fruits, which are fleshy drupes (stone fruits). These fruits can be sweet or tart and are consumed fresh, used in cooking, or preserved. Many cherry species are also cultivated as ornamentals for their beautiful spring blossoms.34

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Wood
…wood of Prunus serotina (black cherry) and P. avium (European wild, or sweet, cherry) is used to make high-quality furniture, and the wood of Pyrus communis (pear) is also highly valued. The wood of black cherry, native to North America, has a reddish brown colour and a warm luster…
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…wood of Prunus serotina (black cherry) and P. avium (European wild, or sweet, cherry) is used to make high-quality furniture, and the wood of Pyrus communis (pear) is also highly valued. The wood of black cherry, native to North America, has a reddish brown colour and a warm luster…
Read More