PRUNUS AMERICANA / AMERICAN PLUM

PRUNUS AMERICANA / AMERICAN PLUM

Hardy, Native Tree with Beautiful Spring Blossoms and Edible Fruit

Prunus americana, commonly known as American Plum, is a small deciduous tree that adds beauty and functionality to landscapes. Native to North America, it is prized for its stunning white spring flowers, sweet edible plums, and attractive fall foliage. This tree thrives in a variety of conditions and is an excellent choice for wildlife-friendly gardens.

Why Choose American Plum?

• Showy Spring Flowers: In early spring, clusters of white flowers bloom, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
• Edible Fruit: The small, red to yellow plums ripen in late summer and are sweet and flavorful, perfect for fresh eating or preserves.
• Wildlife-Friendly: The tree provides food for birds and mammals, and its fruit is a valuable food source for wildlife.
• Adaptable and Hardy: Tolerates a wide range of soil types and climates, making it suitable for many garden settings.

Key Features:

• White Spring Flowers: Clusters of white flowers appear before the leaves, creating a stunning display.
• Edible Plums: The plums are small but sweet, with a tart skin that is enjoyable for fresh eating or in recipes.
• Attractive Fall Foliage: The green leaves turn yellow to red in fall, providing additional seasonal interest.
• Hardy and Resilient: Tolerant of drought and various soil conditions, it can thrive in both wet and dry areas.
• Wildlife Attraction: Birds and other wildlife are attracted to the fruit, making it a great addition to a wildlife garden.

Specifications:

• Plant Size: 15–20 feet tall, 15–20 feet wide.
• Hardiness: USDA Zones 4–9.
• Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade, with the best fruit production in full sun.
• Soil Requirements: Well-drained soil; adaptable to a variety of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils.

Ideal Uses:

• Wildlife Gardens: Its edible fruit and flowers attract birds, pollinators, and small mammals, making it perfect for a wildlife-friendly space.
• Native Plant Gardens: As a native species, it provides ecological benefits and supports local wildlife.
• Small or Medium Landscapes: Its compact size makes it suitable for residential gardens or as a specimen tree.
• Edible Landscapes: Grow it in an edible garden for both ornamental and practical purposes, harvesting the plums for culinary use.

Prunus americana, or American Plum, is a beautiful and versatile tree, offering both ornamental value and practical benefits. Whether you're looking to attract wildlife, enjoy edible fruit, or add seasonal interest to your garden, this tree is a great choice.

NATIVE TO ONTARIO