Mon-Fri 9am - 5pm Mountain time
Pin Cherry vs Black Cherry
Prunus pensylvanica
Prunus serotina
NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON
Pin Cherry is a small tree that produces clusters of white blossoms in spring followed by bright red berries that ripen through the summer. The attractive red color of the leaves in the fall is an added bonus.
The fruit is quite sour when eaten fresh but is excellent when cooked into jam or jelly. Birds love the berries and will be attracted to your property.
Note: This species is currently unavailable. Grow your own using Pin Cherry seeds at SeedTime.ca.
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.
Pin Cherry Quick Facts
Black Cherry Quick Facts
Toxicity: bark and wilted leaves toxic to livestock