The chokecherry belongs to the same family as the rose.
The common chokecherry, also called a wild cherry or choke berry, received its name for the bitter, acerbic flavor of its berries. Scientifically known as prunus virginiana, the chokecherry belongs to the rosaceae family, which also includes apples, apricots and strawberries, according to Encyclopedia Britannica. Gardeners use these bushes in their gardens while other people pick the berries for cooking.
Description
Chokecherries grow to be between 25 and 30 feet tall with grayish brown or reddish bark, according to Ohio State University. The twigs of this bush emit the same bitter odor as almonds. The leaves may be shaped like an egg or oval with a pointed tip and serrated edges. Dark green on top, the leaves are lighter green on their underside.
Chokecherries bloom in late May to early June. Their white flowers hang in elongated clusters of approximately 35 flowers. Five petals make up each flower. The plant bears red berries in clusters of six to 12 berries. As the berries ripen in August, they turn to a bluish-black color. While less than a half an inch in diameter, the fruits have a large stone in the middle.
Habitat
Native to North America, the chokecherry grows throughout the central and northern U.S. It thrives in rich, moist soil but will survive in stony or sandy soil as long as the soil is well-drained. They tend to grow in thick colonies that may include other trees and shrubs. Chokecherries grow along the edges of rivers and creeks, ravines, near the edge of woods and in open woodlands, according to Alberta Plant Watch. These bushes also appear along roadsides and fences, where their seeds have been deposited by birds that eat the red or bluish-black chokecherry berries.
Toxicity
Portions of the chokecherry are poisonous to humans and livestock. When you digest the seeds, leaves, twigs or bark of the chokecherry, the stomach produces an acid called cyanide, which is toxic. Cyanide poisoning can kill a person or animal within minutes if not treated immediately. You can safely eat red or ripened chokecherry berries, but be sure not to swallow a pit. Seek immediate medical attention if you ingest any of the toxic parts of the chokecherry.
Uses
Bluish-black chokecherry berries have a tart taste and can be made into wine, syrups or jellies, or added to stews. The Plains Indians used chokecherry twigs to roast game because the burning wood added flavor to the meat. They also used wood from the chokecherry to make teepees, skewers, arrows and bows, according to Alberta Plant Watch. In folk medicine, the leaves, stems, bark and roots of the chokecherry were made into a tea used to treat colds, fevers and pneumonia. However, these teas have no proven benefits and should not be taken unless first discussed with a doctor.
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