A vibrant autumn tree with dense red, orange, and yellow leaves standing in a field of dry brown grass under a clear blue sky.

Black Cherry Tree

2-3ft
$54.95
$54.95
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A vibrant autumn tree with dense red, orange, and yellow leaves standing in a field of dry brown grass under a clear blue sky.
  • A vibrant autumn tree with dense red, orange, and yellow leaves standing in a field of dry brown grass under a clear blue sky.
  • Plant size guide showing different plant heights with corresponding measurements.
  • Close-up of a leafy green plant with clusters of dark purple-black and red berries hanging from thin stems.
  • A close-up of a flowering branch with many small white blossoms and yellow-orange centers, set against green leaves and a soft blurred green background.
  • A vibrant autumn tree with dense red, orange, and yellow leaves standing in a field of dry brown grass under a clear blue sky.
  • Plant size guide showing different plant heights with corresponding measurements.
  • Close-up of a leafy green plant with clusters of dark purple-black and red berries hanging from thin stems.
  • A close-up of a flowering branch with many small white blossoms and yellow-orange centers, set against green leaves and a soft blurred green background.
Black Cherry Tree

Black Cherry Tree

$54.95
$54.95
Size

Prunus serotina

The Black Cherry is a majestic, fast-growing native deciduous tree that brings remarkable ecological value, seasonal beauty, and structural presence to the landscape. Valued for its dark, rugged bark that breaks into small, scaly plates resembling burnt cornflakes, this native powerhouse transitions effortlessly through the seasons.

In mid-spring, it produces drooping racemes of fragrant, white blossoms that burst forth alongside its emerging glossy green leaves. By late summer, these flowers mature into heavy clusters of dark red to black cherries that are an absolute feast for local songbirds and wildlife. As autumn arrives, the foliage turns a striking yellow to rich golden-peach before dropping to reveal a strong, branching winter canopy.

The Ecological Footprint

  • Wildlife Sanctuary: A premier ecological powerhouse, hosting hundreds of species of native moth and butterfly caterpillars and offering high-quality nesting habitat for birds.

  • The Berry Buffet: Produces nutrient-rich drupes that serve as a vital food source for dozens of species of songbirds, small mammals, and larger wildlife in late summer.

  • Erosion Champion: Exceptional at stabilizing slopes and field edges; its deep, expansive root system securely anchors soil to prevent erosion.

  • Woodland Wonder: Robustly thrives in diverse forest margins and open woodlands, serving as a foundational species for native forest regeneration and biodiversity.

The Honest Harvest (What to Expect)

  • The Perks: Highly adaptable to various soils, boasts gorgeous spring blossoms and brilliant autumn color, supports unmatched wildlife biodiversity, and grows at a fast, rewarding pace.

  • The Caveats: Can produce heavy dropped fruit that may require cleanup near patios or walkways. Wilted leaves contain cyanogenic glycosides which can be toxic to livestock if ingested in large quantities, and surface roots can occasionally push through turf over time.

Specifications

  • Botanical Name: Prunus serotina

  • Common Names: Black Cherry, Rum Cherry, Wild Black Cherry

  • Mature Height: 50-80 feet

  • Mature Width: 35-50 feet

  • Growth Rate: Fast (2-3 feet per year when young)

  • Lifespan: 100-200 years

  • USDA Zones: 3-9

  • Chill Hours: *

  • Sun Preference: Full sun to partial shade

  • Soil Type: Deep, moist, fertile, and well-drained soils; highly adaptable

  • Soil pH: Adaptable (4.5-7.5)

  • Water Needs: Moderate; prefers consistent moisture but establishes drought tolerance with age

  • Flower Color: White; mid-spring

  • Fruit Type: Small, dark red to black cherries (drupes); late summer

  • Pollinators: *

  • Growth Habit: Upright, spreading, and open crown with a strong central leader

  • Spacing: 35-40 feet apart for individual specimen planting

  • Landscape Uses: Native naturalizing, wildlife gardens, large shade tree, forest restoration

  • Maintenance Level: Low (occasional pruning of lower branches as it matures)

Planting & Care Guide

  • Hydration: Saturate the planting area thoroughly before setting the tree into the ground, and maintain consistent moisture during its initial establishment phase.

  • Siting: Choose an open location with full sun where the tree has ample room to reach its mature size and spread its broad canopy.

  • Mulching: Apply a thick 3-inch layer of organic mulch around the base to lock in ground moisture and suppress weeds, keeping the mulch several inches clear of the main trunk.

  • Establishment: Ensure the tree receives regular, deep waterings during its first two growing seasons to build a strong, extensive root system.

  • Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring while the tree is dormant to remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches and to train a strong central leader.

  • Fertilization: Generally unnecessary. If your soil is exceptionally poor, a light top-dressing of organic compost around the drip line in early spring will provide steady nutrients.

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