University of Illinois Extension

University of Illinois Extension

Hort Answers

Tree

Black Cherry, Wild Cherry
Prunus serotina

Wild Cherry leaves
Wild Cherry leaves
 
Features
White flowers in spring; yellow to orange fall color. 
 
Culture
Full sun; needs well-drained soil. 
 
Cultivars
 
 
Mature Height
45-60 Feet
 
Size
Medium
Large
 
 
Mature Form
Oval 
 
Native To:
United States (and Illinois) 
 
USDA Hardiness Zone
4 - 8 
 
Soil Conditions
Moist, Well-Drained
 
 
Tolerance
Salt
Wind
 
 
Exposure/Light Requirements
Full Sun
 
 
Uses
Shade
 
 
Foliage Color
Green
 
 
Fall Foliage Color
Orange
Yellow
 
 
Pests and Problems
 
Additional Notes
In general plants belonging to the genus Prunus are prone to a number of disease and insect problems and also tend to be short-lived.   Prunus serotina is less prone to some of the common problems; it tend to be longer lived (30-50 years in the landscape, longer in the wild).

 

 
Related Resources
Home, Yard & Garden Pest Guide
Illinois Commercial Landscape and Turfgrass Pest Management Handbook
U of IL - Distance Diagnosis through Digital Imaging
U of IL - Plant Clinic