Flowering Plum Tree Facts

T[ [the flowering plum](https://www.gardenguides.com/130181-big-flowering-plum-trees.html) ]e flowering or ornamental plum tree is also known as the purple leaf or black plum. It is easy to grow, and is relatively pest-free. The dark green leaves set off the colorful flowers, making the flowering plum one of the most popular ornamental trees.

Features

The flowers can be single or double blooms and come in white, dark, medium or light pink or a combination of white and pink. They can grow from 25 to 40 feet in height. Some varieties will produce a fruit--some edible, some not.

Environment

The tree can tolerate a short drought period. The tree can be grown in zones 4 to 9, all but the coldest and hottest parts of the country.

Planting

Ornamental plum needs full sun, at least 6 hours of sun a day. It can take any kind of soil, as long as it is well drained.

Care

The flowering plum needs very little care or pruning. Water just occasionally, but so that the water goes deep into the soil.

Uses

The trees are used as small shade trees or specimen trees. The edible fruits are used to make jelly.

Flowering Plum Tree Facts

Also known as cherry plum or myrobalan plum, flowering plum (Prunus cerasifera) is a small to medium-sized ornamental tree native to Asia. Generally, flowering plums are suitable for U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 5 to 8. The tree grows in full sunlight or partial shade and tolerates mild coastal conditions. Flowering plum is a short-lived tree with an average lifespan of about 20 years. During prolonged periods of drought, spider mites can become a problem. The cultivar resembles Thundercloud with its reddish foliage and pink blooms. For those with limited space or who wish to plant a tree under power lines, Blirieana flowering plum (Prunus × blireana) is one of the shortest flowering plums.