Black Cherry Tree Seeds

Black Cherry Tree Seeds

(Prunus serotina)

The black cherry tree (Prunus serotina) is a deciduous tree native to North America. It is known for its attractive appearance, valuable wood, and edible fruit.

Identification

• Leaves: Simple, alternate, and oblong to lanceolate with finely serrated edges. The leaves are glossy green on top and paler underneath.
• Flowers: Small, white, and fragrant, arranged in long clusters called racemes. They bloom in late spring.
• Fruit: Small, round, and dark purple to black when ripe. The fruit is edible and often used in jellies and wines but can be bitter.
• Bark: Young trees have smooth, reddish-brown bark with horizontal lenticels. As the tree matures, the bark becomes darker and develops scaly, flaky plates.

Habitat

• Black cherry trees are found in a variety of habitats, including forests, fields, and along roadsides. They prefer well-drained soils and can tolerate a range of conditions from full sun to partial shade.

Growth and Lifespan

• These trees can grow to a height of 50-80 feet, with a trunk diameter of 2-3 feet. They have a moderate growth rate and can live for several decades.

Wood

• The wood of the black cherry tree is highly valued for its rich, reddish-brown color and fine grain. It is commonly used in furniture making, cabinetry, and flooring.

Wildlife

• The fruit of the black cherry tree is an important food source for birds and small mammals. The tree also provides habitat and nesting sites for various wildlife species.

Uses

• Culinary: The fruit can be used to make jams, jellies, and wines. The bark can be used to make a cough syrup or tea for medicinal purposes.
• Medicinal: Historically, various parts of the tree have been used for their medicinal properties, including treatments for colds, coughs, and digestive issues.
• Aesthetic: The tree is often planted as an ornamental for its beautiful spring flowers and attractive form.

Zones: 3 to 8

Stratification Requirement: Seed requires 30-60 days warm stratification followed by 90-120 cold. Soak in water at room temperature for 48 hours & change the water after 24 hours prior to the warm stratification. A few drops of Lemon Juice in the water will improve the results.

Planting Instructions:

Mimic winter conditions by stratifying the seeds; place them in a moist medium like seed-starting mix or peat moss and follow the stratification requirement above.

Prepare the planting site with well-drained soil, as Black Cherry prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil. Plant the seeds just below the soil surface, covering them lightly with soil. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged until the seeds germinate.

Choose a location that receives full sun to partial shade. Once the seedlings have grown and become strong, they can be transplanted to their final location, ensuring proper spacing for future growth.

Water young trees regularly until they are well-established. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and reduce weed competition.