Common Edible Berries Similar to Chokecherries
Foraging for wild berries can be a rewarding experience, but a keen eye is essential, especially when dealing with species that share visual similarities. Several edible berries resemble the dark, astringent fruit of the chokecherry, but with distinct differences in taste and structure. Understanding these nuances is key for both safety and culinary success.
Black Cherry (Prunus serotina)
Also belonging to the Prunus family, the black cherry is perhaps the most closely related and commonly confused species. While both produce dark purple to black fruit in drooping clusters called racemes, black cherries are generally sweeter and less astringent than chokecherries. A primary differentiator lies in the plant's size, as black cherries often grow into large trees reaching up to 60 feet, while chokecherries remain smaller, more shrub-like, and typically don't exceed 20 feet. The leaves also offer a crucial clue: black cherry leaves are longer, more pointed, and have finely rounded teeth along the margin, whereas chokecherry leaves are broader, more rounded, and have sharp, finely serrated teeth.
Chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa)
Often confused with chokecherry due to its similar name, the black chokeberry is a completely different genus and family. The berries themselves are nearly black when ripe and are known for their extremely tart, astringent flavor. Key differences include:
- Chokeberries grow in tight, upright clusters rather than the longer, drooping racemes of chokecherries.
- Chokeberries have multiple tiny seeds, whereas chokecherries contain a single, large pit, as is typical of cherries.
- The most telling sign is the distinct five-pointed fold or crimp at the end of the chokeberry, a feature absent on chokecherries.
Serviceberry (Amelanchier species)
Also known as Juneberry or Saskatoon berry, the serviceberry is another edible fruit that can be mistaken for a chokecherry. Serviceberries ripen in early summer, much earlier than chokecherries, which typically ripen in late summer or fall. Unlike the single-pitted chokecherry, the serviceberry is a pome fruit, containing several small seeds. A distinct five-part crown, or calyx, is also visible at the end of the serviceberry, similar to a blueberry or apple, which is not present on chokecherries. Both the berries and leaves differ significantly upon closer inspection.
Toxic Look-Alikes to Avoid
While identifying edible berries is important, recognizing dangerous, toxic look-alikes is even more critical for foragers. Two species, in particular, require careful distinction from chokecherries.
Common Buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica)
Common buckthorn is an invasive, toxic shrub with berries that can resemble chokecherries. The plant has several distinguishing characteristics:
- Leaves grow in opposite pairs on the stems, unlike the alternate arrangement on chokecherries.
- Buckthorn berries grow in loosely clustered groups directly hugging the stem, whereas chokecherries hang in long, drooping racemes.
- Common buckthorn typically features a sharp thorn at the tip of its twigs, which is absent on chokecherries.
- The fruits contain multiple small seeds, not a single pit.
Cherry Laurel (Prunus laurocerasus)
An ornamental plant native to Europe and Asia, the cherry laurel is toxic and can be confused with a young chokecherry shrub. Key differences include:
- Cherry laurel has thick, glossy leaves with smooth edges.
- In contrast, chokecherry leaves are less glossy and have sharply serrated edges.
- Crushing a cherry laurel leaf releases a strong almond scent, which is a sign of the toxic compounds it contains.
Comparison of Berries Similar to Chokecherries
| Feature | Chokecherry | Black Cherry | Chokeberry (Aronia) | Serviceberry | Common Buckthorn (Toxic) | Cherry Laurel (Toxic) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Growth Habit | Shrub or small tree | Large tree (up to 60 ft) | Shrub | Shrub or small tree | Shrub, often with thorns | Shrub or small tree |
| Berry Arrangement | Drooping clusters (racemes) | Drooping clusters (racemes) | Tight, upright clusters | Individual stems | Loosely clustered, hugging stem | Racemes |
| Seeds/Pit | Single, large pit | Single, large pit | Multiple small seeds | Multiple small seeds | Multiple small seeds | Single pit |
| Calyx/Crown | Absent | Absent | Distinct 5-pointed fold | Distinct 5-part crown | Absent | Absent |
| Leaf Margin | Sharply serrated | Finely rounded teeth | Finely serrated | Coarsely toothed at top | Smooth to finely toothed | Smooth |
| Leaf Arrangement | Alternate | Alternate | Alternate | Alternate | Opposite pairs | Alternate |
| Taste | Astringent, sour | Sweet-tart | Very tart, astringent | Mildly sweet | Bitter, unpalatable | Inedible |
Foraging for Chokecherries: A Safe Approach
When foraging for chokecherries, always follow the best practices for safety and sustainable harvesting. The following list provides a summary of steps to ensure a safe and successful foraging trip.
- Positive Identification: Never consume a berry unless you are 100% confident in its identity. The consequences of misidentification, particularly with species like common buckthorn, can be severe.
- Look at all Features: Check the leaves, fruit arrangement, bark, and growth habit. A single feature is rarely enough to provide positive identification.
- Confirm with Local Experts: Consult local foraging groups, agricultural extension offices, or experienced botanists to confirm your findings.
- Test in Small Batches: When harvesting from a new location, test a small portion of the fruit first, as subtle variations can occur.
- Understand Ripening Times: Chokecherries ripen from late summer to early fall, while look-alikes like serviceberries ripen earlier, usually in June.
- Use the Berries Safely: While the fruit is edible, the pits, leaves, and bark of chokecherries contain cyanogenic glycosides and are toxic. Cooking and processing the fruit for jams or jellies neutralizes most of the toxins.
Additional Berries that Can Cause Confusion
While less frequently mistaken for chokecherries, other wild berries warrant careful consideration, including some elderberry species and hawthorn berries. For example, black elderberries produce black, edible berries but grow in flat-topped clusters on a different type of shrub. Always refer to multiple guides and sources for reliable identification.
Conclusion
Knowing what berries are similar to chokecherries is an essential skill for any aspiring forager. Key look-alikes include the edible black cherry, chokeberry, and serviceberry, as well as the toxic common buckthorn and cherry laurel. Paying close attention to specific details—such as leaf shape, berry arrangement, and the presence of a pit versus multiple seeds—is crucial for proper identification. By following safe foraging practices and double-checking your findings, you can enjoy the bounty of the wild while avoiding dangerous look-alikes. When in doubt, it is always best to leave the berry alone. For more advanced reading, consider reviewing resources like Eat the Weeds to deepen your understanding of edible plants.
