Black Cherry vs Eastern Redbud - TreeTime.ca

Black Cherry vs Eastern Redbud

Prunus serotina

Cercis canadensis

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON - MIGHT RETURN

COMING SOON

(new stock expected: fall of 2026)

Black Cherry
Eastern Redbud

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 Eastern Redbud is known for the pea-like pink buds that emerge in clusters on the bark, embellishing the tree in stunning flowers. They have a longer bloom time, sometimes for two to three weeks before the heart-shaped leaves emerge for the summer. Inedible pods emerge that turn brown in the summer, this tree is a part of the bean family.

Native to the Eastern North America. The Eastern Redbud can tolerate acidic and alkaline soil. Plant this as a beautiful understory species or shaded residential yard or garden. The bright pop of color will make an attractive ornamental tree.

Black Cherry Quick Facts

Eastern Redbud Quick Facts

Zone: 2a
Zone: 4a
Height: 24 m (80 ft)
Height: 8 m (25 ft)
Spread: 14 m (45 ft)
Spread: 9 m (30 ft)
Light: partial shade, full sun
Light: partial shade, full sun
Moisture: normal, wet
Moisture: dry, normal
Growth rate: medium
Growth rate: medium
Life span: medium
Life span: long
Suckering: low
Suckering: high

Toxicity: bark and wilted leaves toxic to livestock

Foliage: long, glossy leaves
Fall colour: yellow to orange
Flowers: white
Flowers: rose-purple, pea-like
Fruit: dark red
Seeds: pod-like
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: no
Catkins: no


Native to: ON, QC, NS, NB
Other Names: mountain black cherry, wild cherry, wild rum cherry
Other Names: judas tree