Managing Black Cherry (Prunus serotina Ehrh.) in European Forests: Insights from native and non-native ranges

Abstract

Black Cherry (Prunus serotina Ehrh.) is a broadleaved tree species native to Northern- and Central-America which was introduced in many other parts of the world, especially in European countries. In many places it has been classified as an invasive species and its management is subject to hotly debates. This review provides an overview of the existing knowledge on the ecology and management of this species in its native and non-native range, with special focus on Europe. Based on the reviewed literature, Black Cherry is a fast-growing and light-demanding forest gap specialist, which tolerates most soil conditions. Depending on the forest site, the species has an either positive or negative influence on soil conditions and nutrient cycling. It is able to alter the forest species composition and site conditions in its non-native range, necessitating control measures in nature conservation areas. However, the elimination of this species has been unsuccessful. Instead, the silvicultural integration of Black Cherry may provide a cost- and labor-effective alternative with additional benefits for forest owners. As a specialist for disturbed forest sites, the future importance of Black Cherry might increase under a changing climate, not only as an intermediate species in secondary succession, but also as a timber species comparable to other non-native tree species in Europe.