Chokecherry (Prunus virginiana)

The Chokecherry tree, also known by its common names like Common Chokecherry, Western Chokecherry, and Virginia Bird Cherry, and scientifically as Prunus virginiana, is a fascinating species. This deciduous shrub or small tree offers ornamental beauty, wildlife benefits, and even edible (though carefully prepared) fruit.

This guide will delve into everything you need to know about the Chokecherry, from its identification and growing conditions to its uses and potential toxicity. Continue reading to unlock the secrets and practical advice surrounding this versatile plant, including information on Chokecherry tree identification and safe chokecherry fruit handling.

1. Chokecherry Tree Identification: Recognizing This Versatile Plant

Correctly identifying a Chokecherry tree is crucial, especially if you plan to utilize its fruit. Misidentification could lead to consuming parts of similar-looking, but potentially harmful, plants.

Common names	Chokecherry, Common Chokecherry, Western Chokecherry, Virginia Bird Cherry
Botanical name	Prunus virginiana
Family	Rosaceae
Genus	Prunus
Species	virginiana
Origin	North America
Native	North America (widespread)
Life cycle	Perennial
Plant type	Deciduous shrub or small tree
Hardiness zone	2-7
Sunlight	Full Sun to Partial Shade
Maintenance	Low to Moderate
Water	Moderate (drought-tolerant once established)
Drainage	Well-Drained (adaptable to various soil types)
Spacing	10-20 ft. (depending on desired size and form)
Flowering period	Spring (April-May, depending on location)
Height	20-30 ft. (can be smaller depending on variety and pruning)
Width	15-20 ft.
Growth rate	Moderate to Fast
Flower color	White
Fruit Color	Red to Dark Purple-Black (when ripe)
Stem color	Reddish-brown to Grayish-brown
Flower benefit	Fragrant, attracts pollinators
Garden style	Naturalistic, Wildlife, Woodland, Native Plant Garden
Uses	Edible fruit (processed), wildlife habitat, erosion control, ornamental, windbreaks, land reclamation
Soil pH	Adaptable (slightly acidic to slightly alkaline)
Propagation	Seed, suckers, cuttings
Notable Features	Astringent fruit (requires processing), cyanogenic glycosides in seeds, leaves, bark, and twigs, beautiful flowers and fall foliage.
Pest and Disease	Generally resistant, but may be susceptible to aphids, tent caterpillars, and fungal leaf spots.
Leaf Type	Simple, alternate, ovate to oblong, finely serrated.
Leaf Color	Glossy dark green above, paler beneath.
Leaf Special	Two small glands at base of the leaf.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the Chokecherry’s distinguishing features:

• Overall Form: The Chokecherry typically grows as a large shrub or small tree, reaching heights of 20 to 30 feet and widths of 15 to 20 feet. It often exhibits a multi-stemmed, suckering growth habit, forming dense thickets. This makes it great as a natural hedge.
• Leaves: Chokecherry leaves are simple, alternate (not directly opposite each other on the twig), and ovate to oblong in shape. They are usually 2 to 5 inches long and have finely serrated (toothed) margins. The upper surface of the leaf is a glossy dark green, while the underside is paler. A key identifying feature is the presence of two small glands at the base of the leaf blade, where it joins the petiole (leaf stalk).
• Bark: Young bark is smooth and reddish-brown to grayish-brown. As the tree matures, the bark can become darker and slightly furrowed or scaly.
• Flowers: Chokecherry trees produce beautiful, fragrant, white flowers in the spring (typically April to May, depending on location). The flowers are arranged in elongated, drooping clusters called racemes, which can be 4 to 6 inches long. Each individual flower is small, about 1/4 inch across, with five petals.
• Fruit: The chokecherry fruit is a small drupe (similar to a cherry), about 1/4 to 1/3 inch in diameter. The fruit ripens from green to a deep red, and finally to a dark purple-black when fully mature (usually in late summer to early fall). The fruit hangs in clusters, similar to the flower arrangement. The flesh is tart and astringent, with a single, relatively large seed (pit) inside.
• Twigs: have a strong, unpleasant odor when crushed.

Comparison with Similar Species:

Feature	Chokecherry (Prunus virginiana)	Black Cherry (Prunus serotina)	Pin Cherry (Prunus pensylvanica)
Leaf Shape	Ovate to oblong, finely serrated	Lanceolate to oblong, finely serrated	Lanceolate, finely serrated
Leaf Glands	Two glands at base of leaf blade	Glands present on petiole, often inconspicuous	Glands present on petiole, often inconspicuous
Flower Clusters	Drooping racemes	Drooping racemes	Small, flat-topped clusters (umbels)
Fruit Color	Dark red to purple-black	Dark red to black	Bright red
Mature Bark	Slightly furrowed or scaly	Scaly, with distinct horizontal lenticels	Smooth, reddish-brown, with lenticels
Twigs	Strong odor when crushed	Faint almond smell	Slight odor

A study by the USDA Forest Service highlights the importance of accurately distinguishing Prunus species, as some contain higher levels of cyanogenic glycosides than others. Accurate identification minimizes risk.

2. Chokecherry Tree Toxicity: Understanding the Risks and Safe Handling

The question of chokecherry tree poisonous properties is a critical one. While the ripe fruit pulp is technically edible, other parts of the plant contain cyanogenic glycosides, which can release cyanide when ingested.

• Cyanogenic Glycosides: These compounds are present in the seeds (pits), leaves, twigs, and bark of the Chokecherry. When these parts are chewed or damaged, enzymes in the plant interact with the glycosides, releasing hydrogen cyanide, a potent toxin.
• Risk to Humans: The primary risk to humans comes from consuming the seeds. Swallowing a few seeds whole is unlikely to cause serious harm, as they may pass through the digestive system intact. However, chewing or crushing the seeds releases the cyanide. Children are particularly vulnerable due to their smaller body size.
• Symptoms of Poisoning: Symptoms of cyanide poisoning can range from mild (headache, dizziness, nausea) to severe (rapid breathing, low blood pressure, seizures, loss of consciousness, and even death in extreme cases).
• Risk to Livestock and Pets: Livestock and pets (especially grazing animals like horses, cows, and sheep) are at higher risk because they may consume large quantities of leaves and twigs.
• Safe Fruit Handling: To enjoy Chokecherries safely, it is essential to remove the pits before consuming the fruit. This is typically done during processing for jams, jellies, syrups, or juices. The cooking process also helps to break down any remaining cyanogenic glycosides in the fruit pulp.
• Recommended Practices:
  • Never eat the seeds, leaves, twigs, or bark.
  • Process the fruit properly by removing the pits and cooking it.
  • Keep children and pets away from Chokecherry trees, especially fallen fruit.
  • If you suspect cyanide poisoning, seek immediate medical or veterinary attention.

The University of California, Davis, provides detailed information on cyanide poisoning in livestock and recommends best practices for managing pastures with Chokecherry trees.

3. Chokecherry Tree Uses: A Multifaceted Plant

Despite its toxicity concerns, the Chokecherry tree offers a variety of valuable uses, both historically and in contemporary applications:

• Traditional Uses (Indigenous Peoples): Native American tribes across North America have long utilized Chokecherries for food, medicine, and other purposes. The fruit was often dried, pounded into cakes, and used in pemmican (a mixture of dried meat, fat, and berries). The bark was sometimes used to make teas for medicinal purposes (though this is not recommended without expert guidance due to toxicity).
• Modern Culinary Uses: Today, Chokecherries are primarily used to make jams, jellies, syrups, juices, and wines. The tart, astringent flavor of the fruit lends itself well to these processed products. Chokecherry pudding is a traditional recipe, often involving thickening the juice with flour or cornstarch and sweetening it to taste.
• Wildlife Value: Chokecherry trees provide important food and habitat for wildlife. Numerous bird species consume the fruit, including robins, cedar waxwings, and grosbeaks. Deer, bears, and other mammals also browse on the foliage and fruit. The dense, thicket-forming growth habit provides shelter and nesting sites for birds and small mammals.
• Ornamental Value: The Chokecherry’s attractive white flowers and vibrant fall foliage (which can range from yellow to orange to red) make it a desirable ornamental plant for landscaping. It can be used as a specimen tree, in shrub borders, or as part of a wildlife-friendly planting.
• Erosion Control: Due to its extensive root system and suckering habit, Chokecherry can be effective in stabilizing soil and preventing erosion on slopes and streambanks.
• Land Reclamation: Its ability to tolerate harsh conditions makes it a useful species for revegetating disturbed sites, such as mine tailings or roadsides.
• Wood Uses: The wood of the Chokecherry, while not commercially significant, is hard and close-grained. It has been used traditionally for making small tools, arrow shafts and other items.

4. Growing Chokecherry Trees: Cultivation and Care

Where do Chokecherry trees grow? Chokecherries are native to a wide range of North America, from Canada to Mexico, excluding the extreme southeastern United States. They are adaptable to various soil types and climates.

• Growing Conditions:
  • Sunlight: Chokecherries prefer full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day) for best fruit production, but they can tolerate partial shade.
  • Soil: They adapt to a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. Well-drained soil is preferred, but they can tolerate occasional wetness. They are also tolerant of a range of soil pH levels, from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline.
  • Water: Chokecherries are relatively drought-tolerant once established, but regular watering, especially during dry periods, is beneficial for optimal growth and fruit production.
  • Hardiness Zones: Chokecherries are hardy in USDA zones 2-7, meaning they can withstand cold winter temperatures.
  • Spacing: Plant trees 10-20 feet apart, depending on the desired size and whether you want them to form a thicket.
• Planting:
  • Timing: The best time to plant Chokecherry trees is in the spring or fall.
  • Site Selection: Choose a location with adequate sunlight and well-drained soil.
  • Hole Preparation: Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep.
  • Planting: Gently remove the tree from its container, loosen any circling roots, and place it in the hole. Backfill with soil, tamping gently to remove air pockets.
  • Watering: Water thoroughly after planting.
  • Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch (such as wood chips or shredded bark) around the base of the tree, keeping it away from the trunk, to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
• Ongoing Care:
  • Watering: Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a strong root system. Once established, Chokecherries are relatively drought-tolerant.
  • Fertilizing: Chokecherries generally do not require heavy fertilization. A light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can be beneficial, especially in poor soils.
  • Pruning: Prune Chokecherry trees in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Thinning out some of the older stems can encourage new growth and improve air circulation.
  • Pest and Disease Control: Chokecherries are generally resistant to serious pests and diseases. However, they can be susceptible to some common problems, such as aphids, tent caterpillars, and fungal leaf spots. Monitor your trees regularly and take appropriate action if necessary. Integrated pest management (IPM) practices are recommended.
  • Suckering Control: Chokecherries can spread aggressively through root suckers. If you want to limit their spread, remove suckers as they appear.

5. Chokecherry Recipes and Products: Savoring the Flavor

Common Chokecherry tree facts include their edibility after proper preparation. Here are a few ideas for using Chokecherries in your kitchen:

• Chokecherry Jelly: A classic and popular way to enjoy Chokecherries. The jelly-making process involves extracting the juice from the fruit, adding sugar and pectin, and boiling it to the setting point. The tart flavor of Chokecherry jelly pairs well with toast, biscuits, and other baked goods.
• Chokecherry Syrup: Similar to jelly, but with a thinner consistency. Chokecherry syrup can be used on pancakes, waffles, ice cream, or as a flavoring for beverages.
• Chokecherry Juice: A refreshing and flavorful drink. The juice can be enjoyed on its own or mixed with other fruit juices.
• Chokecherry Wine: A more adventurous option for those who enjoy home winemaking. Chokecherry wine can have a unique, complex flavor.
• Chokecherry Pudding: A classic method to utilize this native fruit, blending tradition with delicious taste.

Basic Chokecherry Jelly Recipe:

Ingredient	Quantity
Chokecherries	4 cups
Water	4 cups
Sugar	3 cups (adjust to taste)
Lemon Juice	2 tablespoons
Powdered Pectin	1 package (1.75 oz)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Juice: Wash the Chokecherries and remove any stems. Place them in a large pot with the water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the fruit is soft.
2. Strain the Juice: Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or jelly bag. Do not squeeze the bag, as this can make the jelly cloudy.
3. Combine Ingredients: In a clean pot, combine the Chokecherry juice, lemon juice, and powdered pectin. Bring to a full rolling boil, stirring constantly.
4. Add Sugar: Add the sugar and stir until dissolved. Return to a full rolling boil and boil hard for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Test for Gel Stage: Remove from heat and test for gel stage using the cold plate method (place a small spoonful of jelly on a cold plate; if it sets within a few minutes, it’s ready).
6. Can the Jelly: Pour the hot jelly into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Wipe the jar rims, place lids and rings on the jars, and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes (adjust time for altitude).
7. Cool and Store: Let the jars cool, and the lids should make a pinging sound, meaning the jar is sealed for pantry storage.

6. Purchasing Chokecherry Products and Trees:

If you’re interested in experiencing the flavors, you can purchase chokecherry for sale products online or at specialty food stores. Several companies offer Chokecherry jams, jellies, syrups, and other products.

If you’re looking to purchase a chokecherry tree, Gardencenterpoint.com is a hub to help connect you with reputable nurseries, both local and online, that offer Chokecherry trees for sale. Gardencenterpoint provides a directory of nurseries and garden centers, allowing you to compare prices, availability, and shipping options. Gardencenterpoint.com is a comprehensive resource for gardeners, offering a platform to find plant retailers, expert advice, and a community forum. It is not a retail seller itself, but rather a connecting hub.