Plant Profile: Prunus avium

Prunus avium, commonly known as the sweet cherry tree, is a deciduous species often found in landscaped areas. Its leaves are arranged alternately, are simple in structure, and feature serrated edges, with two small glands located at the base of each leaf blade. The tree produces a few to several flowers that cluster together, characterized by their rounded shape and five white petals. The resulting fruit is a fleshy drupe, which can be yellow or red and contains a large pit. Occasionally, this tree has escaped cultivation and become naturalized in the wild.

**Toxic Parts:** Wilted leaves, twigs, and seeds.

**Mode of Toxicity:** Ingestion.

**Edibility:** The fruit is safe to eat, whether raw or cooked.

**Toxicity Level:** Highly toxic; consumption can be fatal!

**Habitat:** Typically found as a cultivated tree in landscapes, it rarely escapes cultivation to establish itself in the wild.