Do Cherries Have Seeds? A Deep Dive into Prunus Avium
Yes, almost all cherries contain a single, hard seed or “pit” located at their center. However, there are some cultivated varieties that are bred to be “seedless,” although this is a misnomer, as they often contain shrunken, non-viable pits.
The Cherry: A Sweet Introduction
Cherries, those delightful ruby-red or deep-purple fruits, are a favorite treat enjoyed around the world. From pies and preserves to simple snacking, their sweet-tart flavor makes them a versatile ingredient. But beyond their deliciousness lies a botanical truth: they are stone fruits, belonging to the Prunus genus, which also includes plums, peaches, and apricots. And, like their relatives, they almost always harbor a seed, or pit, inside. Understanding this pit – its purpose, its dangers, and the occasional exception to the rule – is key to appreciating the full cherry experience.
The Anatomy of a Cherry and Its Pit
The cherry itself consists of several parts, all contributing to its unique characteristics:
- Skin (Exocarp): The outer layer, providing color and protection.
- Flesh (Mesocarp): The edible, juicy part.
- Pit (Endocarp): The hard, stony shell enclosing the seed.
- Seed (Kernel): The actual seed within the pit, capable of germination.
The pit, or endocarp, is a hard, protective shell designed to safeguard the seed from physical damage and environmental stress. It’s this pit that you must carefully avoid when enjoying fresh cherries.
The Purpose of the Pit: Nature’s Design
The pit serves a crucial function in the cherry tree’s reproductive cycle. It protects the seed within until conditions are right for germination. Without the pit, the seed would be vulnerable to the elements, animals, and decomposition. This hard shell allows the seed to survive passage through an animal’s digestive system, facilitating seed dispersal.
Cyanide Concerns: A Word of Caution
It’s important to note that the seeds inside cherry pits contain amygdalin, a compound that can break down into hydrogen cyanide when ingested. While the amount of cyanide in a single seed is usually small and unlikely to cause serious harm to an adult, it’s best to avoid crushing or chewing the pits. Children are particularly vulnerable to cyanide poisoning due to their lower body weight. Ingesting multiple crushed pits could potentially lead to adverse effects.
“Seedless” Cherries: Myth vs. Reality
While the term “seedless” might conjure images of cherries without any trace of a pit, the reality is slightly more nuanced. So-called “seedless” cherry varieties, which are rare, are actually parthenocarpic. This means they develop fruit without fertilization.
- These cherries typically contain shrunken, non-viable pits or only a vestige of a seed.
- They are bred specifically for commercial purposes to eliminate the inconvenience of pitting.
- These types of cherries are difficult to grow and are not widely available.
Cherry Pit Disposal: Environmental Considerations
When disposing of cherry pits, it’s best to avoid throwing them into compost piles or gardens unless you are prepared to possibly deal with cherry tree saplings sprouting. A regular trash bin is the easiest and safest choice.
Cherry Cultivars and Pit Size
Different cherry cultivars can vary in pit size. Generally, sweet cherries tend to have smaller pits compared to sour cherries. This characteristic, along with other factors like sweetness, firmness, and disease resistance, is carefully considered by cherry breeders when developing new varieties.
| Cherry Type | Examples | Typical Pit Size |
|---|---|---|
| Sweet | Bing, Rainier, Lapins | Smaller |
| Sour | Montmorency, Morello | Larger |
The Cherry Pit Spit: A Fun Tradition
Spitting cherry pits is a time-honored tradition, often associated with summer picnics and cherry festivals. The world record for cherry pit spitting is an impressive distance. Just be sure to spit responsibly, avoiding other people and property!
Frequently Asked Questions About Cherry Pits
What happens if I accidentally swallow a cherry pit?
Usually, nothing. Your digestive system isn’t able to break down the hard outer shell, so it will simply pass through. However, avoid chewing or crushing the pit, as that can release the cyanide-containing compounds.
Can I plant cherry pits to grow a cherry tree?
Yes, you can plant cherry pits. However, success is not guaranteed. Cherry seeds often require a period of cold stratification (exposure to cold temperatures) to break dormancy. Also, the tree that grows may not produce fruit that is true to the parent variety.
Are cherry pits biodegradable?
Yes, cherry pits are biodegradable. They will eventually decompose over time. However, they are relatively hard and can take a significant amount of time to break down in a compost pile.
Can I use cherry pits for crafts?
Absolutely! Cherry pits can be used in various craft projects, such as filling small pillows or creating textured art. Make sure to thoroughly clean and dry the pits before using them.
Are cherry pits safe for pets?
No. Cherry pits are not safe for pets. Like humans, pets are susceptible to cyanide poisoning from the seeds. Additionally, the hard pits can be a choking hazard or cause intestinal blockage, particularly in smaller animals.
How do commercial cherry processors remove the pits?
Commercial cherry processors use specialized machinery called pitters to remove the pits from cherries quickly and efficiently. These machines use a small plunger or needle to push the pit out of the fruit, leaving the cherry relatively intact.
Why do some cherries have double pits?
Occasionally, a cherry may contain two pits. This is usually due to a genetic anomaly or environmental factors that cause the development of an extra seed within the fruit.
Do organic cherries have more pits?
There is no evidence to suggest that organic cherries have more or larger pits than conventionally grown cherries. The size and frequency of pits are primarily determined by the cherry variety and growing conditions, not by whether they are grown organically.
Can cherry pits be used for anything other than planting or crafts?
Historically, cherry pits have been used for various purposes, including as filling for heating pads (as they retain heat well) and as an ingredient in certain traditional medicines. However, use with caution given the cyanide concerns.
Are Rainier cherry pits different from Bing cherry pits?
The pits of Rainier cherries are generally similar in size and composition to those of Bing cherries. The main difference between the two fruits is their color, sweetness, and subtle flavor nuances.
How can I safely remove cherry pits at home?
There are various tools available for pitting cherries, including dedicated cherry pitters and even simple household items like paper clips or chopsticks. The key is to gently push the pit out without damaging the surrounding fruit.
Can I eat the cherry pit if I cook it?
No, it’s still not recommended to eat the cherry pit, even if cooked. While cooking might reduce the cyanide content to some extent, it’s better to err on the side of caution and avoid consuming the seeds.