American Black Cherry (Prunus serotina)
A very valuable tree in the history of the country, and to any person seeking comforts in the wild places. If you find one or a stand, you have some very good stuff on your hands. The wood itself was used in many tools and tool handles as well as furnishings. The bark is particularly astringent and lends a dark cherry red color to your leathers. A bark tea was used to treat sore throats and as a cough elixir. The leaves also could be used to tan hides, although with a much less rich color. The berries have a bit of a pungent taste, but still sweet enough to enjoy. Excellent ingredient for wine, jelly, and cold drink.
I didn't have my camera with me, but we ate supper with a friend last night for a change and I noticed all the black cherries on the ground and still on the tree. I think we are going to pick about a gallon today and juice them, then dehydrate the juice for fruit snacks. I hope to do a nice write-up on them like PTW has done.
I wanted to bring to everyone's attention that these trees are in fruit in my area and maybe you should have a look around to see if you can find some too. It appears to be quite abundant in the eastern US.
Pics and processing coming soon!
