Cherry Plum, Prunus cerasifera, also known by the common name Myrobalan Plum as is a deciduous species of fruit bearing tree with an erect spreading habit, indigenous to Europe and Asia. Wild types of Cherry Plum are large shrubs or small trees reaching 6-15 meters tall and a similar spread.

Prunus cerasifera leaves are broadly speaking bright green color, 4 to 6 centimeters long, alternate, simple, obovate with serrate margins. Depending on the cultivated variety, Prunus cerasifera can have any of several colors, including some with purple-foliage frequently called purple-leaf plum.

The plant is one of the first European trees to flower in springtime, occasionally earlier. Flowers are white or pinkish and about 2 centimeters across, with five petals, perfumed and showy.

Cherry Plum Fruit

The fruit is a round, fleshy, edible drupe, 2 or 3 centimeters in diameter, yellow or red in color that reaches maturity from mid summer to early autumn. Some varieties have sweet cherry fruits that can be consumed fresh, while others are sour and they are better for making jam.

Cherry Plum Propagation Methods

Plant propagation is by seed. Cultivars by cuttings. The plant is a popular ornamental tree for garden and landscaping use, grown for its very early flowering. It is a moderately to fast growing tree that needs full sun location, a free (doesn’t like compacted soil), well-drained, acidic soil.

The plant is a drought tolerant but short-lived tree, around 20 years. ‘Thundercloud’ is the most popular variety and is very common in commercially. Prunus cerasifera is a member of the Rosaceae family the genus Prunus.

Cherry Plum, Prunus cerasifera

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