What are Most Common Look-Alikes for Wild Cherries?

Identifying Lookalikes

When searching for wild cherries, be aware of their close relatives, including chokeberries (Aronia arbutifolia) and the similar-to-chokeberry but poisonous, black nightshade (Solanum nigrum). Chokeberries grow in dense thickets with white flowers, whereas black nightshade produces small, green, egg-shaped berries that ripen to a shiny black color.

Habitat and Distribution

Wild cherries (Prunus serotina) typically grow in woodland edges, along streams, and in areas with moist, rich soils. Chokeberries prefer similar environments, but can also thrive in slightly drier conditions. Black nightshade, however, is more adaptable and can be found in a variety of habitats, including disturbed areas and waste grounds. When foraging for wild cherries, examine the plant’s overall habit, leaves, and bark to ensure it is a Prunus species.

Distinctive Characteristics

To distinguish wild cherries from their lookalikes, pay attention to the following characteristics: Wild cherry leaves have 3-5 leaflets that are 2-4 inches long, while chokeberry leaves have 3-7 leaflets that are 1-2 inches long. Wild cherry bark is grayish-brown with horizontal lenticels, whereas black nightshade has a smooth, hairless stem with small, raised bumps. Wild cherries also produce a distinctive almond-like pit in the center of the fruit, which is not present in chokeberries or black nightshade.