Leaves and Bark
Chokecherry trees have simple, alternate leaves and a smooth, gray bark when in their youth. The leaves have been described as oval or heart-shaped, with toothed margins, and measure up to two or three inches in length. These trees are incredibly grizzled once they’ve aged, which is not all that long given their life span is usually somewhere between 15 to 20 years.
The bark of a mature chokecherry tree, when viewed from a distance, appears to be heavily cracked and wrinkled. But, on closer examination, it more closely resembles a shaggy texture with thick ridges. In the autumn, the leaves are known to take on a deep red, purple, or yellow-orange hue, colored by the presence of anthocyanins in the foliage.
Fruit and Blooms
The chokecherry tree’s fruit is tightly-clustered drupes that are red, black, or purple in color. The pulp of the berries are usually sour in taste, and the seed inside is usually large and hard. For this reason they’re commonly referred to as “bird-cherries” because only birds can swallow the entire fruit.
In the spring, these trees bear light-pink blooms that turn creamy-white against the young leaves of the tree. The delicate look of chokecherry blooms was described by 19th century naturalist, Dr. E.P. Bicknell, as “giving them a look of fragility and grace that is hard to forget”. The trees’ most common bloom time is in May, with some blooms continuing into June.
Habitats and Uses
The chokecherry tree is native to North America and typically is found in environmental stresses — ranging from North Dakota down to eastern Texas, from crazy cold temperatures in Alaska down to the warm, humid climates of south Florida. These resilient trees can also be found in areas disturbed by human activity.
Aside from being a beautiful addition to any landscape, chokecherry trees have been around for centuries fulfilling various uses and needs. The tree’s fruit is both a food source, and its bark is used in Native American medicinal treatments. The fruit can be used to make jelly, jams and preserves, while the blossoms can be used to make perfumes. The root bark of the tree is technically a medication, and it was historically used to treat minor skin irritations and diseases.
Health Benefits
Chokecherry trees can provide a number of health benefits to those who take advantage of the various parts of the tree. The dark, red-purple color of the fruit can be attributed to its numerous antioxidants, which have been linked to reducing inflammation and supporting the body’s health. The Anthocyanins found in chokecherry fruits have also been associated with lower blood pressure, anti-diabetic properties, anti-cancer properties and fight oxidative stress.
The bark of the tree provides tannin, which can be used to treat urinary issues and has anti-microbacterial and anti-fungal properties. It can also be used to provide relief from laryngitis, sore throat, and sore mouth.
Threats to Chokecherry Trees
A number of threats face chokecherry trees — both in the wild and in cultivation. One of the major threats is the bird cherry ermine moth by the larvae of which feed on the tree’s leaves. Other pests can present a problem, too, such as the eastern tent caterpillar, the two-lined chestnut borer, the Japanese beetle, and the gouty oak gallmaker.
Fungal diseases such as rust and leaf spot, fungus threaten chokecherry trees as well, leaving them vulnerable and more susceptible to attack from other pests.
Disease Prevention
Good sanitation practice and proper tree maintenance can help reduce the risk of disease and pest infestation in the chokecherry tree. Pruning and other tree care practices should be done in the late winter before new growth begins. Removal of all dead, damaged, or diseased stems, branches and leaves is essential in order to reduce the threat of further damage and spread of disease.
It’s always a good idea to reduce the number of trees planted, in case the worst happens — and some do become infected. Spacing trees wider will ensure necessary air circulation, which can help promote dryness and discourage the spread of various types of diseases and pests.
Fertilizing
Fertilizing and mulching your chokecherry tree can help it look and feel its best. Additional nutrients can be provided during the growing season and can be beneficial during periods of environmental stress. Common mulches, like wood chips and leaves, are great for chokecherry trees and can be very beneficial in proper soil preparation and nutrients.
Mulching will also reduce the amount of water lost through evaporation, which helps reduce the frequency of watering. It’s important to be careful when applying mulch to not pile it around the trunk of the tree, as this can increase the humidity and lead to rotting issues.
Insects and Birds
The chokecherry tree can be a strong asset to the sustainability of bird and insect populations. These trees attract a variety of birds, who feast on the berries, as well as several types of butterflies and moths. The presence of these beautiful creatures can help bring an added level of beauty to any garden or landscape.
In addition to the birds, many beneficial insects also make chokecherry trees their home. Predatory insects, like the creepers, ladybugs, aphid midges, and predatory wasps are all attracted to the tree and help to keep the other pests away. Native bees, too, will benefit from the nectar and pollen offered by the tree’s blossoms.
Conclusion
The chokecherry is an incredibly resilient, yet delicate species of tree. Not only do they provide a wide array of benefits to the environment, they are also a beautiful sight in any landscape. They’re a great addition to any home garden, as long as they are cared for properly. Chokecherry trees offer incredible health benefits, as well as a great home for birds and beneficial insects.
