Prunus serotina (black cherry) is a valuable and versatile tree with a range of uses. The wood is highly prized for its use in furniture, paneling, professional and scientific instruments, handles, and toys, while the fruit is suitable for making jam and cherry pies, and has some use in flavoring liqueurs. Native Americans prepared decoctions of the inner bark for cough medicines and tea-like cold remedies. The tree is also widely known for its dark grey to black bark, fragrance, and long shiny leaves. The mature tree can reach a height of 100 ft and is hardy to zone 3. While the fruit of the Prunus serotina tree is edible, the rest of the plant contains toxic compounds and some caution is advised. The wood of the Black Cherry tree weighs about 36 lb per cubic foot and takes a beautiful polish. It also has a range of medicinal uses, particularly in the treatment of coughs and respiratory ailments. Its roots and bark contain expectorant and mild sedative properties and can be used as a tonic. It is also an attractive tree for wildlife, with its fruit being readily eaten by birds.