Choke Cherry | Prunus virginiana

A close-up of a flowering branch with delicate white blossoms and yellow centers, accompanied by green leaves.
Photo Credit: Rob Routledge
The image shows a bush or shrub with lush green leaves and small white flowers, growing near trees in a sunny environment.
The image shows a cluster of dark berries growing among green leaves.
Photo Credit: Paul Wray
A close-up of a green leaf with a smooth texture and slightly serrated edges, surrounded by blurred greenery.
A close-up of a flowering branch with delicate white blossoms and yellow centers, accompanied by green leaves.
The image shows a bush or shrub with lush green leaves and small white flowers, growing near trees in a sunny environment.
The image shows a cluster of dark berries growing among green leaves.
A close-up of a green leaf with a smooth texture and slightly serrated edges, surrounded by blurred greenery.

Description

Deciduous small tree that grows 6′-15′ tall with white to pinkish flowers in late spring and dark purple to black fruits. Needs full sun to produce a good crop of the sour red-black cherries much loved by wild animals and birds. CAUTION: leaves are extremely toxic to grazing animals!

 

Plant Details

Habitat Mixed conifer forests, streamsides
Habitat Notes Can occur on a variety of soil types
Phenology Flowers April-July, fruits June-July
Mature Height 8-15’
Shade Preference Full sun
Soil Tolerance Prefers moist soils
Special Uses Attracts birds; Provides wildlife forage, cover and food.
Ethnobotany A stable food source and medicinal plant for Indigenous tribes across North America