black chokecherry

The black chokecherry (Prunus virginiana, variety melanocarpa) is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to North America. It belongs to the rose family, Rosaceae, and the genus Prunus, which also includes almonds, peaches, and plums.12

This plant is known for its astringent, acidic reddish to black fruits, often called chokecherries. These fruits can be used to make jelly and preserves. Indigenous peoples have historically used chokecherries for food, medicine, and ceremonial purposes. However, the plant's stones and foliage are poisonous and may contain hydrocyanic acid. The black chokecherry produces hanging spikes of white flowers and has slender brown twigs with an unpleasant odor. It often forms dense thickets in moist soils.1