Quick answer: Black cherry (Prunus serotina) is native to 32 states. What's commonly sold under this name is the true wild species. It's typically seed, verified 15 Sep 2026.
Where it's native
Listed in the register as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Sun, Part Shade, Shade |
|---|---|
| Water | Medium water, Dry-Moist |
| Soil | Well-drained soils, neutral to acidic |
| Bloom | Bloom Mar-Jun |
| Height | Up to 110 ft (eastern), shorter in southwest |
| Wildlife value | Fruit eaten by 33 bird species and mammals, larval host for Eastern Tiger Swallowtail and Viceroy |
All parts except fruit contain poisonous substances, especially bark/leaves/seeds. Wilted leaves, twigs, seeds contain cyanogenic glycoside and amygdalin; can cause gasping, weakness, spasms, convulsions, respiratory failure. Highly toxic to humans and herbivorous mammals, may be fatal
Recorded in Europe since 1629, now highly invasive there and in northern South America; not noted as invasive/regulated in North America
Buying it
Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (15 Sep 2026), via Amazon.
Sold as: Seed via Amazon · listing verified 15 Sep 2026
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