Wild Cherry
Prunus serotina
PLANT NAME
Wild Cherry
COMMON NAMES
Black cherry, rum cherry, Virginia cherry
BOTANICAL NAME
Prunus serotina
IDENTIFICATION
A large deciduous tree native to Eastern North America. It has dark, flaky bark, elongated leaves, and drooping clusters of small white flowers followed by dark bitter berries.
IDENTIFICATION IMAGE
AI ART TO BE GENERATED
PARTS TRADITIONALLY USED
Inner bark.
CULINARY USES
Berries can be used for jellies or flavoring liqueurs, though they are quite tart. The bark is used as a flavoring agent in cough syrups.
TRADITIONAL USES
Widely used as an expectorant and mild sedative to calm persistent, irritating coughs and treat bronchitis. Historically used in Native American medicine for respiratory and digestive ailments.
GROWING / HARVESTING
Thrives in deep, rich soils in mixed forests. Inner bark is harvested in the fall or spring.
SAFETY / CAUTION
Contains cyanogenic glycosides which can be toxic if taken in large doses or improperly prepared. Do not consume wilted leaves, which are highly toxic to livestock. Always consult your doctor.