The Black Cherry tree is native to Eastern North America and has a number of uses. It's bark has been used as a cough syrup for decades and the cherries can be used in jams or as a flavoring for liqueurs. The cured timber is known for its deep red color and high density, making it the one of the most desireable for building furniture and cabinetry. Although this tree now grows from Mexico to Canada, the use of Black Cherry in old barns is particular to this region because it has only grown large enough for use as proper plank lumber in the Northeast woods.