C Chokecherry
Other common names: Bitter Berry
Scientific name: Prunus Virginiana
Conservation status: Least Concern / Stable
This plant is easily identifiable by it’s distinct leaf smell. When scratching the bark, it creates a strong smell that resembles a coffee or cherry smell. It also had a leaf pattern that doesn’t resemble a lot of other plant leaves.
Chokecherries are important because they provide much needed food and nutrition to various species of animals, including humans. In particular, it is a source of cover and shelter for many species of NorthAmerican birds. It is also important for bees for pollination.
Many indigenous tribes ate the chokecherries, in a stew, wine or juice, after taking the seeds out, as they are toxic.They also used the wood and bark from the chokecherry to make baskets.The bark and fruit were also used for medical purposes like treating colds and stomach pain.
Chokecherries can be found on the west side of the Willow’s Landing on the HSC campus.