Years ago I couldn’t help but notice odd protrusions on the top surface of a tree’s leaves. New plants appeared to be trying to sprout from the leaves. I found the leaves to be those of a black cherry tree, and the protrusions to be finger-like spindle galls caused by microscopic eriophyid mites. When this mite begins feeding on leaf tissue, the leaf is stimulated to grow a gall that covers the mite having little effect on the health of the tree. These mites are reported to be common to cherry and maple trees. If not for spindle galls calling my attention to those leaves, I would not have noticed and identified the black cherry tree.
The black cherry I found, Prunus serotina, was shrub size
and leggy, and was struggling in a shady area. These trees are shade intolerant. Black cherry trees in full sun may reach 60 feet or more. Because these trees have shallow roots, when topping above other trees in a forest they are prone to wind throw. Trees reportedly may live over 250 years, but 80 to 100 years is more common.
Black cherry trees can be identified by leaves, bark, and fruit. The tree is deciduous, which means it loses its leaves in the fall. Leaves are simple and alternate, 2 to 5 inches long, and have fine teeth on the edges. They are shiny on top and slightly fatter towards the end. Leaves are yellow in the fall. Trees have thin bark 
with horizontal marks which turn into vertical fissures, then it splits like burnt potato chips. Bark color is brown, gray or black. Flowers are white and are attached to 4 to 6 inch long stems called racemes. Fruit are small juicy red berries that turn black in summer. The edible berry has a large stone that is poisonous, similar to the seed of apples and apricots.
Trees growing around livestock has caused problems. When fresh leaves are eaten, unless large amounts are eaten the toxin level is low and there is usually no problem. But when wilted leaves are eaten as from a damaged tree, livestock will be poisoned. Leaves, twigs, bark and seeds are all poisonous when ingested, and
to be avoided.
Black cherry is a valuable tree. Cherry wood, known for its rich redish-brown color, is strong, hard, and close-grained. It is valuable for making fine furniture, cabinets, paneling, veneers, interior trim, and such. Black cherry berries are edible in jellies, jams and cherry pies, and as flavoring for drinks, ice cream, and dark chocolate cakes. It is most often used instead of sweet cherries to achieve a sharper taste.
In spite of its poisonous properties, the black cherry is a valuable tree for its prized wood and flavorful berries. Discovery of this tree was a pleasant 
surprise.
I feature below a product for those who are unfamiliar with the flavor of black cherry and would like to taste it, and for those who like the flavor and want some for use. It is available for purchase here through my participation in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. Any purchase through this link helps maintain this website and is appreciated.
