Tennessee, with its diverse climate and geography, offers a surprisingly varied landscape for cherry trees. From the mountainous regions of East Tennessee to the milder climate of West Tennessee, different cherry species thrive. Understanding these variations is crucial for both home gardeners selecting the right tree and nature enthusiasts hoping to identify the cherries they encounter during their explorations.
Native Tennessee Cherry Trees: A Look at the Wild Side
Several native cherry species call Tennessee home, contributing to the state's rich biodiversity. These trees often play a vital role in the ecosystem, supporting wildlife and adding beauty to the landscape. Identifying these natives is a rewarding endeavor for any nature lover.
1. Black Cherry ( Prunus serotina):
This is arguably the most common wild cherry tree in Tennessee. Recognizable by its dark bark, which becomes almost black with age, and its glossy, dark green leaves with finely serrated edges, the black cherry is a large tree reaching impressive heights. Its fruit, while small and somewhat astringent when raw, is prized for making jams, jellies, and even liqueurs. Caution: The bark and leaves contain compounds that can be toxic if ingested, so care should be taken.
2. Pin Cherry ( Prunus pensylvanica):
A smaller tree than the black cherry, the pin cherry is easily identified by its reddish-brown, peeling bark, particularly noticeable on young trees. Its leaves are sharply pointed and finely toothed. Pin cherries are often found in disturbed areas or recently burned forests. Their fruits are small and tart, frequently consumed by birds.
3. Chokecherry ( Prunus virginiana):
True to its name, the chokecherry's fruit is intensely tart and astringent when fresh, making it less desirable for human consumption unless processed into jams or jellies. The tree itself has reddish-brown bark and oval-shaped leaves with finely serrated edges. Chokecherries are important food sources for many wildlife species.
Cultivated Cherry Trees in Tennessee: Ornamental and Fruiting Varieties
Beyond the native species, many cultivated cherry varieties thrive in Tennessee gardens and orchards. These trees offer a range of aesthetics and fruiting possibilities, adding to the state's horticultural diversity.
Ornamental Cherry Trees:
Numerous ornamental cherry trees, often imported from Japan and other parts of Asia, are popular choices for landscaping. These trees are valued for their spectacular spring blossoms, often showcasing vibrant pink or white flowers. Some popular varieties include different cultivars of Prunus serrulata (Japanese cherry) and Prunus subhirtella (Autumn Flowering Cherry). The specific cultivar's hardiness will influence its suitability for a particular region within Tennessee.
Fruiting Cherry Trees:
While the native cherries offer fruit, the yields are often modest. For substantial fruit production, gardeners typically turn to cultivated varieties. Sweet cherries (Prunus avium) and sour cherries (Prunus cerasus) are common choices, although successful cultivation requires careful consideration of chilling hours (the number of hours below 45°F during winter dormancy). Different cultivars have varying chilling hour requirements, so selecting a variety adapted to your specific location is crucial.
Finding the Right Cherry Tree for Your Tennessee Garden
Selecting the right cherry tree for your garden depends heavily on your location within Tennessee, your soil type, and your desired outcome (ornamental beauty or fruit production). Consulting local nurseries and extension offices will prove invaluable. They can offer tailored advice on suitable varieties based on your specific conditions and microclimate. They are also a great resource to identify local disease and pest pressures.
This guide provides a starting point for exploring the fascinating world of cherry trees in Tennessee. Further research and local expertise are essential for identifying specific species and making informed choices for planting and cultivation. Remember to always consider the ecological role of these trees and practice sustainable gardening methods.
