Cherry as found in the lumber market is almost entirely the wood of the wild black cherry (Fig. 247) although the wood of other species may sometimes be offered. Its fine texture and attractive color make it one of the most desirable of finishing lumbers. Plum (Figs. 95, 239), very similar to cherry, is used similarly but more rarely.

Fig. 247. Wild Black Cherry (Prunus serotina, Rose Family, Rosacea). Flowering branch, 1/2. Fruit cluster. (Britton and Brown.) Tree growing about 30 m. tall; bark rough and black; leaves smooth above; flowers white; fruit dark purple or black. Native home, Eastern North America.

Fig. 247.-Wild Black Cherry (Prunus serotina, Rose Family, Rosacea). Flowering branch, 1/2. Fruit-cluster. (Britton and Brown.)-Tree growing about 30 m. tall; bark rough and black; leaves smooth above; flowers white; fruit dark purple or black. Native home, Eastern North America.