Black Cherry vs Kentucky Coffeetree - TreeTime.ca

Black Cherry vs Kentucky Coffeetree

Prunus serotina

Gymnocladus dioicus

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Black Cherry
Kentucky Coffeetree

Black Cherry is common in eastern North America but a rare find elsewhere. This tree is shade tolerant and is often found in old fields, forest openings, and along fencerows.

The fruit is edible and is commonly used to flavor rum and brandy. It is also edible and often eaten fresh or used in wine or jelly. Black Cherry trees typically begin producing fruit when they are 10 years of age.

Black Cherry wood is a rich reddish-brown color and is strong, making it valued in cabinetry and woodworking. It is often used in reclamation as well.

The leaves can poison livestock as they contain cyanide derivatives and precursors. However, many have noted that deer still seem to browse their trees with impunity and birds and other animals eat the fruit when available.

The Kentucky Coffeetree has the largest leaves of any native tree in North America! In the summer, its large green canopy provides shade. While in the winter, its leathery bean pods act as a decorative element against the sky as they rattle in the wind. Beautiful year-round, this tree is an elegant addition to any landscape.

Black Cherry Quick Facts

Kentucky Coffeetree Quick Facts

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Zone: 2a
Zone: 3a
Height: 24 m (80 ft)
Height: 21 m (70 ft)
Spread: 14 m (45 ft)
Spread: 15 m (50 ft)
Moisture: normal, wet
Moisture: dry, normal
Light: partial shade, full sun
Light: full sun
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: no
Catkins: no
Fall colour: yellow to orange
Flowers: white
Growth rate: medium
Growth rate: medium
Life span: medium
Life span: long
Suckering: low
Suckering: high



Toxicity: bark and wilted leaves toxic to livestock

Toxicity: Uncooked pods are toxic to humans
Other Names: mountain black cherry, wild cherry, wild rum cherry
Other Names: coffeetree