2 Native Wild Cherry Trees In Kansas (Photos & Details)
An enchanting pair of native wild cherry trees can be found nestled among the scenic landscapes of Kansas.
These wild cherry trees are native to the state and have a distinct beauty that sets them apart. They stand tall with slender trunks and have stunning canopies adorned with clusters of white flowers in the spring. These blossoms give way to small, juicy cherries with a tantalizing red hue as the seasons progress.
In this article, we will delve into the details and showcase captivating photos of these two remarkable wild cherry trees in Kansas.
So, let’s get started.
1. Black Cherry
- Scientific Name: Prunus serotina
- Common Name(s): Black Cherry, Wild Cherry, Rum Cherry
- Mature Height: 30-60 feet (9-18 meters)
- Native Region: North America
- Flowers: White, small, clustered in elongated clusters
- Fruit: Dark red to black cherries
- Uses: The wood is used for furniture, cabinets, and flooring. Wildlife and birds both enjoy the fruits. It is also used in the production of liqueurs and jams.
The Prunus serotina, or Black Cherry, is one of the widespread cherry trees in Kansas settings. This deciduous tree can grow to be 30-60 feet (9-18 meters) tall when mature. It is indigenous to North America and goes by several names, including Black Cherry, Wild Cherry, and Rum Cherry.
In terms of physical qualities, the Black Cherry has little white blooms clustered in elongated clusters. Birds and wildlife like the dark crimson to black cherries that follow the blossoms. The leaves of the tree are simple, alternating, and sharply serrated.
The Black Cherry thrives in a range of settings in Kansas, including upland woodlands, valleys, and open fields. It prefers well-drained soils but will grow in a variety of soil types. The tree grows well in full sun to moderate shade, making it adaptable to a variety of lighting conditions.
The Black Cherry has both cultural and commercial value. Because of its durability and lovely grain, the wood of this tree is used to make furniture, cabinets, and flooring. Furthermore, the fruits of the Black Cherry are an important food source for birds and wildlife. The cherry themselves can also be used to make liqueurs and preserves.
2. Chokecherry
- Scientific Name: Prunus virginiana
- Common Name(s): Chokecherry
- Mature Height: 15-30 feet (4.5-9 meters)
- Native Region: North America
- Flowers: Small white flowers arranged in clusters
- Fruit: Dark purple to black cherries
- Uses: Chokecherries are used for making jams, jellies, and pie fillings. The fruits can also be used in beverages such as syrups, wines, and liqueurs. Additionally, chokecherry wood can be used for making furniture or crafts.
Chokecherry, scientifically known as Prunus virginiana, is a North American deciduous tree. It grows to a mature height of 15 to 30 feet, with a rounded crown and densely branching slender stems. Chokecherry tree leaves are simple and alternating, ranging in length from 1 to 3 inches. They have a lance-shaped shape with sharply serrated edges and are dark green in color, becoming yellow or red in the fall.
This cherry tree species is found throughout the United States, including Kansas. It is widely found in woods, woodlands, and savannas, as well as near streams and roadside riparian zones. Chokecherry trees may grow in a variety of soil types, although they favor well-drained, loamy soils. Once established, they are also drought resistant.
The chokecherry tree’s canopy is covered with clusters of small, white blooms in the spring. Pollinators such as bees and butterflies are drawn to these flowers. The tree yields dark purple to black cherries after pollination. The cherry are slightly astringent and acidic, yet they are commonly used in cooking. They’re great for making jams, jellies, and pie fillings. Chokecherry juice can also be used to make syrups, wines, and liqueurs.
Chokecherry trees in Kansas are both ornamental and ecologically significant. They provide food and habitat for birds and other creatures. Young chokecherry trees have smooth, reddish-brown bark that gradually develops fissures and darkens with age. Chokecherry tree wood is robust and sturdy, making it ideal for crafts and furniture manufacturing.
Cherry Trees In Kansas – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
This section explores some of the most commonly asked questions about common cherry trees in Kansas landscapes.
Can cherry trees grow in Kansas?
Cherry trees can be grown in Kansas, depending on the cherry variety and local conditions. While some varieties, such as sour cherries, are better suited to the climate of the state, others face challenges such as temperature fluctuations, late spring frosts, soil quality, and pest management. Careful varietal selection, soil testing and amendment, frost protection, and disease control are all required for successful cultivation. Though possible, growing cherry trees in Kansas may require extra attention and care to ensure healthy tree growth and fruit production.
What are the common uses of wild cherry trees in Kansas?
In Kansas, wild cherry trees serve several functions. They primarily benefit the state’s ecosystems by providing habitat and food for wildlife, such as birds and mammals that eat cherries. Furthermore, because of its attractive grain and durability, the wood of wild cherry trees is valuable and has historically been used to make furniture and cabinetry. However, it’s essential to note that consuming the fruit of wild cherry trees is not recommended for humans, as it can be bitter and potentially toxic if ingested in large quantities.
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Sources
The Regional Gardening team makes sure that the information in our articles is accurate by only using sources that are known to be trustworthy. Some of these sources are peer-reviewed journals from government agencies, well-known universities, and scientific research organizations.
- Recommended Plants & Trees For Kansas, Kansas State University
- Native Tree Identification, Kansas Native Plant Society
- Discover Kansas Forests, Kansas Forest Service
- Preferred Trees for Southwest Kansas, Kansas State University
