Black Cherry

The black cherry is the most common tree in Central Park. It is a naturally occurring species and can be found throughout the Park, from rock outcrops to woodland edges. Long, ornamental, white, fragrant flowers appear in May, but look little like the showy ornamental cherry blossoms hotly anticipated each spring. Birds and mammals eat the fruit of this tree and spread its seeds freely, contributing greatly to its dominance throughout the Park. The leaves of the black cherry also provide food for the Eastern tiger swallowtail butterfly.