Chokecherry, a popular plant in gardens and landscapes, has a couple of similar species that are worth exploring. These include the black cherry (Prunus serotina) and the pin cherry (Prunus pensylvancia). While these species share some similarities with chokecherry, they also have distinct characteristics that set them apart.
Black cherry trees are considerably larger than chokecherry trees, reaching heights of 60 to 80 feet and diameters of 2 to 5 feet. This makes them a striking presence in any landscape. In comparison, chokecherry trees typically range from 15 to 30 feet in height. The black cherry’s larger size can make it a more dominant feature in the garden.
In terms of appearance, black cherry and chokecherry trees share some similarities. Both have oval-shaped leaves with serrated edges. However, the leaves of the black cherry tree tend to be larger, measuring around 2 to 5 inches in length. The leaves of chokecherry trees are generally smaller, typically measuring 1 to 3 inches in length. The black cherry’s leaves also have a glossy, dark green color, while chokecherry leaves are a lighter green.
When it comes to fruit, both chokecherry and black cherry trees produce small, round berries. However, there are some differences in their characteristics. Chokecherries are known for their tart taste, while black cherries have a sweeter flavor. The berries of the black cherry tree also tend to be larger, measuring around 0.4 inches in diameter, compared to the smaller berries of the chokecherry tree, which measure around 0.2 inches in diameter.
Pin cherry, another species similar to chokecherry, is a smaller tree that typically grows to about 20 to 40 feet in height. It is often found in open woods, clearings, and disturbed areas. Pin cherry trees have slender trunks and branches, and their bark is reddish-brown with horizontal lines. In comparison, chokecherry trees have a more rounded shape and their bark is smooth and grayish-brown.
Both pin cherry and chokecherry trees produce clusters of small white flowers in the spring. However, there are some differences in their flowering patterns. Pin cherry trees tend to have more abundant and showy flowers, which can create a stunning display in the landscape. Chokecherry trees, on the other hand, produce more modest clusters of flowers.
In terms of fruit, pin cherry trees produce small, bright red cherries that are similar in size to chokecherries. However, the taste of pin cherries is less tart and more palatable, making them a popular choice for jams, jellies, and pies.
While chokecherry trees are unique in their own right, they do have some similarities to other cherry species such as black cherry and pin cherry. These species share characteristics such as small white flowers and small round fruit, but they also have distinct differences in terms of size, taste, and overall appearance. Understanding these similarities and differences can help gardeners and landscapers make informed decisions when selecting plants for their outdoor spaces.
