Update. Yeah, it's just the leaves. The wood is safe. I found this on Wikipedia.[h=2]Biochemistry[/h] Like
apricots, the seeds of black cherries contain compounds that can be converted into
cyanide, such as
amygdalin.[SUP]
[15][/SUP][SUP]
[16][/SUP] These compounds release
hydrogen cyanide when the seed is ground or minced, which releases enzymes that break down the compounds. These enzymes include
amygdalin beta-glucosidase,
prunasin beta-glucosidase and
mandelonitrile lyase.[SUP]
[17][/SUP] In contrast, although the flesh of cherries also contain these compounds, they do not contain the enzymes needed to produce cyanide, so the flesh is safe to eat.[SUP]
[18][/SUP]
The foliage, particularly when wilted, contains
cyanogenic glycosides, which convert to
hydrogen cyanide if eaten by animals.[SUP]
[5][/SUP] Farmers are recommended to remove any trees that fall in a field containing livestock, because the wilted leaves could poison the animals. Removal is not always practical, though, because they often grow in very large numbers on farms, taking advantage of the light brought about by mowing and grazing. Entire fencerows can be lined with this poisonous tree, making it difficult to monitor all the branches falling into the grazing area. Black cherry is a leading cause of livestock illness, and grazing animals' access to it should be limited.
[h=2]Uses[/h] The fruit of
Prunus serotina is suitable for making
jam and
cherry pies, and has some use in flavoring
liqueurs; they are also a popular flavoring for
sodas and
ice creams. The black cherry is commonly used instead of sweet cherries (
Prunus avium) to achieve a sharper taste. It is also used in cakes which include dark chocolate, such as a
Black Forest gateau and as garnishes for
cocktails.[SUP][
citation needed][/SUP]
The wood of
P. serotina is also used for cooking and
smoking foods, where it imparts a unique flavor.
P. serotina timber is valuable; perhaps the premier
cabinetry timber of the U.S., traded as "cherry". It is known for its strong red color and high price. Its density when dried is around 580 kg/m[SUP]3[/SUP] (980
lb/cu yd).[SUP]
[19][/SUP]
P. serotina trees are sometimes planted ornamentally.
