Chokecherry (Prunus virginiana)

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Prunus virginiana, commonly known as Chokecherry, is a native shrub or small tree found throughout Illinois in woodlands, prairies, and along roadsides. It thrives in a variety of soil types and full sun to partial shade.

This plant features glossy, dark green leaves that turn yellow to red in the fall, and clusters of small, white flowers that bloom in spring, attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies. The fruit, which ripens to dark purple or black cherries, is edible but very tart—hence the name "chokecherry"—and can be used for making jellies, jams, and syrups.

For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Prunus virginiana is an excellent choice for wildlife gardens, providing food for birds and mammals, as well as seasonal beauty in landscapes.

Size:

Prunus virginiana, commonly known as Chokecherry, is a native shrub or small tree found throughout Illinois in woodlands, prairies, and along roadsides. It thrives in a variety of soil types and full sun to partial shade.

This plant features glossy, dark green leaves that turn yellow to red in the fall, and clusters of small, white flowers that bloom in spring, attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies. The fruit, which ripens to dark purple or black cherries, is edible but very tart—hence the name "chokecherry"—and can be used for making jellies, jams, and syrups.

For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Prunus virginiana is an excellent choice for wildlife gardens, providing food for birds and mammals, as well as seasonal beauty in landscapes.

Bloom time: mid- to late spring

Habitats: abandoned fields; fence rows; open disturbed woodlands; powerline clearances in wooded areas; slopes of bluffs; stabilized sand dunes near Lake Michigan; typical savannas and sandy savannas; typical thickets and sandy thickets; typical woodlands and sandy woodlands; wooded ravines; woodland borders; woodland openings

Lifespan: perennial

Moisture: moist to dry-mesic

Plant type (height): shrub; tree (3 to 33 feet)

Requirements: full sun to light shade

Soil: clay; glacial till; loam; rocky material; sandy; silty