Cherry plum
Also known as
Myrobalan plum, Myrobalan, Purple-leaf plum, Cherryplum, Wild plum
Keep this plant’s care guide close at hand.
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Prunus cerasifera, commonly called cherry plum or myrobalan plum, is a small deciduous tree or large shrub native to southeastern Europe and western Asia. It typically grows 4–10 m tall with a rounded crown, smooth gray-brown bark, and slender spur-bearing shoots. One of the earliest bloomers in spring, it flowers profusely before leaf-out with white to pale pink, five-petaled blossoms that feed early pollinators. Leaves are usually glossy green in the species, while many garden cultivars have purple foliage. By summer it bears cherry-sized plums in yellow, red, or purple, with tart-sweet flesh suitable for fresh eating, preserves, and liqueurs. Adaptable and fast-growing, it tolerates varied soils and is used for hedges, ornamental planting, and as rootstock for other plums. It is generally resilient but can be affected by aphids, caterpillars, leaf spot, bacterial canker, and silver leaf in humid or poorly ventilated sites; good sanitation, pruning timing, and airflow maintain plant health.
Taxonomy
Properties & Requirements
How to care for Cherry plum
Water
Water deeply and infrequently to encourage deep roots. During the first two growing seasons, provide a slow soak weekly in dry spells, wetting soil 20–30 cm deep. Once established, irrigate only during prolonged drought: a thorough soak every 10–14 days is better than frequent, shallow watering. Allow the top 5–8 cm of soil to dry between waterings and avoid waterlogged conditions, which predispose to root rot and canker. Mulch to reduce evaporation and moderate soil temperatures.
Light
Full sun (6–8+ hours of direct light) yields the best bloom, fruit, and purple foliage color in cultivars. Light partial shade is tolerated, especially in hot-summer regions, but shaded positions reduce flowering and promote softer growth more prone to disease. Prioritize morning sun to dry foliage quickly after dew or rain. For container specimens, rotate periodically for even light exposure and avoid deep shade or heavy canopy competition from larger trees.
Nutrients
Feed lightly and prioritize soil organic matter. In early spring, apply a balanced, slow‑release fertilizer (e.g., 8‑8‑8 or 10‑10‑10) at label rates, then top-dress with 2–5 cm of compost or well‑rotted manure. Young container-grown plants benefit from monthly dilute feeds during active growth. Avoid high‑nitrogen formulas that encourage soft, disease‑prone shoots and reduce flowering/fruiting. Do not fertilize after midsummer in cold climates to prevent late, frost‑tender growth.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA Zones 5–8, cherry plum tolerates winter lows to about −26°C (−15°F) once established. Flower buds open very early and are vulnerable to late frosts; select sites with good cold‑air drainage or light shelter to protect bloom. It endures typical summer heat, but sustained temperatures above 35°C (95°F) can reduce fruit set and scorch leaves without supplemental water and mulch. Avoid frost pockets and strong wind corridors; protect young trunks from sunscald in continental climates.
