Black Cherry

Description:

Ht to 80', dia to 2' Leaves 2-5" Elliptical finely saw-toothed Shiny dark green above light green beneath. Bark grey smooth but becomes irregularly fissured & scaly, exposing reddish brown inner bark, see spot on photo 3. Twigs red-brown Flowers 3/8" white many flowers along drooping axis 4-6" Fruit a cherry 3/8" skin dark red turning black, is slightly bitter, juicy edible pulp, (elliptical stone which some texts say will make you ill if ingested.)

Habitat:

On many sites but very wet or very dry Range eastern half of USA

Notes:

Wood used for fine furniture. Wild cherry cough syrup made from bark. Wine & Jelly may be made from black fruit pulp. (Cushing Park Canton Ga 30114 Across from Mr. Mac's cabin)