Bird-cherry

Bird-cherry (Prunus Padus) is a small tree growing wild in the moist woods in Britain and through the palaearctic region. It is easily recognised by its abundant racemes of small white flowers and deciduous leaves. The drupes are small, unpalatable sava to birds (whence the popular name) and schoolboys, but are sometimes used to colour wine and brandy, and are said to be eaten in Siberia. In Scotland the common name is Hagberry. A larger but closely allied species (P. virginiana), of which the fruit is used to flavour pemmican, has been introduced into Britain. The wood of both species is esteemed by cabinet-makers.