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Choke Cherry, Prunus virginiana L.
Rosaceae

Usually found as a small tree or shrub. Ranges from 3 - 7.5 cm in height.

Leaves: 5-10 cm in length, inverted oval-shaped, generally widest above the middle, tapering abruptly to a point at the tip. A fine-toothed, dark green above, paler and smooth below.

Fruit: Crimson or dark red, ½ -1 cm in diameter. Ripens in late August to early September, juicy edible sour flesh.

Bark: A thin smooth grey or reddish-brown, becoming slight furrowed and scaly on very old trunks.

Habitat: Found on the island of Newfoundland in small thickets or scattered along streams, highways or fringes of forests.

General: Distinguishable from the Pin Cherry by its dark red fruit. Its small size makes it of no commercial importance. Fruit is eaten by birds and is sometimes used in preserves or jelly.

Source: Newfoundland and Labrador
Department of Natural Resources