Understanding the Risks of Wild Cherry Trees
While the sight of a wild cherry tree laden with ripe fruit can be tempting for foragers, caution is essential. Not all parts of the tree are safe to eat. In fact, many parts contain cyanogenic glycosides, which can break down into toxic hydrogen cyanide when ingested. This guide will help you understand the edible parts, the poisonous parts, and how to stay safe while foraging.
Edible Parts of the Wild Cherry Tree
The only part of a wild cherry tree that is safe to eat is the ripe, fleshy pulp of the fruit, provided you do not chew or consume the pit. The fruit of many wild cherry species, such as the Wild Black Cherry (Prunus serotina) and the Wild or Sweet Cherry (Prunus avium), is edible when ripe. When foraging, always follow these best practices:
- Harvest ripe fruit only: The fruit ripens in mid-to-late summer, turning from red to a deep purple or black. Unripe fruit can be very sour and potentially contain higher levels of toxic compounds.
- Avoid the pit: Before consuming, remove the pit entirely. Accidental swallowing of an intact pit is unlikely to cause harm, but crushing or chewing them releases the toxic compounds.
- Wash thoroughly: Always wash foraged fruit to remove dirt, insects, and potential pesticide residue.
Toxic Parts of the Wild Cherry Tree
All other parts of the wild cherry tree, besides the ripe fruit pulp, should be considered toxic and avoided. These include:
- Leaves: Especially wilted or damaged leaves, which can have a higher concentration of cyanogenic compounds.
- Stems and Twigs: Contains the same toxic compounds as the leaves and bark.
- Bark: The bark is poisonous and should never be ingested, though it has been used medicinally in processed forms by professionals.
- Seeds/Pits: The hard pit contains the seed (or kernel), which holds the highest concentration of toxic amygdalin.
Identifying Wild Cherry Trees
Proper identification is paramount to safe foraging, as similar-looking but poisonous berries exist in the wild. Here are some identifying features for the Wild Black Cherry (Prunus serotina):
- Leaves: Alternate, oval-shaped leaves with finely serrated edges. They are dark green and glossy on top.
- Bark: Young bark is smooth, reddish-brown, and has distinct horizontal lenticels (pores). Older bark becomes scaly and dark.
- Flowers: Clusters of small, white flowers appear in late spring to early summer.
- Fruit: Small, purplish-black cherries grow in drooping clusters and ripen in late summer.
Comparison: Wild vs. Cultivated Cherries
Understanding the differences between wild and cultivated cherries is key to both safety and flavor expectations.
| Feature | Wild Cherries (e.g., Black Cherry, Chokecherry) | Cultivated Cherries (e.g., Bing, Rainier) |
|---|---|---|
| Flavor | Often more tart or bitter, depending on the species and ripeness. | Bred for sweetness and large size. |
| Size | Small fruit, often with a large pit-to-pulp ratio. | Significantly larger fruit with more flesh and a smaller pit. |
| Toxicity | Leaves, stems, bark, and seeds contain toxic compounds. | Pits also contain toxic compounds, but the risk is managed due to processing and controlled growth. |
| Best Use | Jams, jellies, or infusions to draw out flavor. | Eaten fresh, baked into pies, or used in other desserts. |
The Danger of Crushed Pits and Wilted Leaves
The presence of cyanogenic glycosides in cherry tree parts is a natural defense mechanism. When the plant tissue is damaged—by chewing, bruising, or wilting—enzymes and these compounds mix, producing hydrogen cyanide. While accidentally swallowing an intact pit is generally harmless, crushing it releases the toxin. This is why it is critical to remove all pits before blending cherries for smoothies or sauces. Similarly, wilted leaves, often consumed by foraging livestock, pose a high risk of cyanide poisoning.
The Role of Responsible Foraging
Foraging requires a significant amount of knowledge and care. Beyond the specific dangers of wild cherry trees, it's vital to be certain of your identification. Several poisonous plants can mimic edible berries. For example, deadly nightshade berries can look similar to wild cherries. When in doubt, leave it out. For reliable identification tips, consult a trusted botanical guide or resource, such as the Woodland Trust's Wild Cherry Identification Guide.
Conclusion: Forage Wisely and Safely
While the ripe fruit of many wild cherry trees is a delicious and safe treat, the rest of the tree poses a serious risk due to toxic cyanide-producing compounds. Always remove the pits and avoid consuming any other part of the plant, especially the leaves, bark, and stems. Proper identification is your most important tool for ensuring a safe foraging experience and protecting yourself and others from accidental poisoning. Enjoy the bounty of nature responsibly and with care.
