Deciduous medium-sized tree

Prunus cerasifera is a popular choice for gardening enthusiasts and landscapers because of its purple foliage and small pale pink or white flowers (which are also fragrant!) from February to April. It lives about 20 years and grows up to 15-25 feet tall; by these standards it is a deciduous medium-sized tree. It was brought to Europe by M.

Pissard and it quickly became a favorite.

Its blooming practically predicts the arrival of spring and its foliage the coming of fall, its entire foliage being shed by September. Its fruit, which are ripen in August, are edible and make good jam or they can be consumed even raw.

To appreciate all it has to give, the purple leaf plum tree should be planted in any rich and well-drained soil as long as it’s place in full sunlight; keep the soil moist and you might want to make it slightly acidic for better results, but this plum tree is an adaptable plant. It can even withstand minor drought, so water it regularly but not too often – if it gets too hot you can water it deeply at its base.

Pruning encourages blossoming and keeps it healthy and beautiful. For propagation you can use the seeds, though vegetative parts work too. Keep in mind that a young tree is prone to bending, especially after rain, so you might need to correct any permanent drooping by pruning.

Proper care should keep pests and fungus at bay; the most common problems are the usual aphids, leaf spots, tent caterpillars, grey mold and mealy bugs as well as others.

adaptable plant, deciduous medium-sized tree, permanent drooping, plum tree, Prunus cerasifera, purple foliage, well-drained soil, young tree