How to identify European plum (Prunus domestica)

How to identify European plum (Prunus domestica)

European plum, also known as Damson plum, Prune Plum, Plum Tree, Common plum, Damson

European plum presents itself as either a substantial shrub or a small tree, reaching heights of 10-20 feet (3-6 meters). As a deciduous species, it sheds its leaves annually and is adorned with striking white flowers. The foliage is accompanied by edible stone fruits that exhibit a purple hue upon maturation. A notable feature for identification is the occasional presence of spines on european plum. The fruiting phases occur later in the season compared to its relatives, an attribute that favors its cultivation in cooler northern regions.

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type: Tree

Leaf Type: Deciduous

Quickly Identify European plum

Tree/shrub reaching 10-20 feet (3-6 meters) with white flowers.

Smooth dark brown stem with overlapping scale buds.

Egg-shaped green leaves with serrated margins and fine hairs.

Showy white flowers with long protruding stamens, 1 inch (2.5 cm) diameter.

Succulent drupe fruit, 2-3 inches (5-7.6 cm), maturing to blue-black color.

Detailed Traits of European plum

Leaf Features

The leaves of european plum are simple, green, and egg-shaped, measuring 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) long and 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) wide. They grow alternately on the stem, with a wedge-shaped base and a pointed tip. The margins are serrated, and the upper surface is covered with fine hairs, providing a slightly rough texture. These distinguishing features aid in the identification of european plum leaves.

Leaf Arrangement

Alternate

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Flower Features

The flowers of european plum are showy and white, each consisting of 5 petals. They appear singly or in pairs and bloom in spring, typically before the leaves emerge. These aromatic flowers feature long stamens that protrude prominently from the center, adding to their distinctive appearance. Each flower measures about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter, contributing to the overall aesthetic appeal of the plant during its flowering period.

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Stem Features

The stem of european plum is smooth and dark brown, measuring approximately 0.4 to 1 inch (1 to 2.5 cm) in diameter. It features a pattern of three or more overlapping scales on its buds. The branches emerge with a fairly regular pattern, creating an intricate but orderly structure. Nodules or leaf scars may be present at nodes, enhancing the textured appearance. The overall structure is sturdy yet flexible, supporting the plant’s growth habit.

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Fruit Features

The fruit is a succulent drupe, ranging from approximately 2-3 inches (5-7.6 cm) in size. By September, it reaches maturity, exhibiting a rich blue to black hue. The surface texture is typically smooth with a waxy sheen. Each fruit encases a single, hard-shelled seed. Its flesh, concealed beneath the skin, is commonly juicy and sweet, providing a vibrant taste experience.

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European plum and Their Similar Plants

Sweet cherry vs. European plum: What's The Difference?

Sweet cherry is a well-known species to fruit lovers worldwide. This stone fruit varies in flavor from sweet to tart, depending on the specific cultivar. Sweet cherry is also used for lumber and is a preferred wood type for furniture.

Cherry plum vs. European plum: What's The Difference?

Cherry plum (Prunus cerasifera) is a deciduous small tree or shrub native to Southern Europe and Western Asia. It is one of the most common wild fruits of its native region, producing numerous rounded, yellow, red, or burgundy-colored sweet juicy fruit in summer and autumn. Cherry plum is also used as an ornamental tree and as rootstock for other Prunus species.

Black cherry vs. European plum: What's The Difference?

Black cherry (Prunus serotina) is a medium-sized, deciduous forest tree native to the Americas, but also naturalized in parts of Europe. It features inflorescence with small white blooms that become clusters of dark cherries, edible when pitted. Mature trees have gray-to-black, distinctly crackled bark. The glossy leaves are poisonous to livestock. It is a highly reproductive pioneer species with invasive potential.

Peach vs. European plum: What's The Difference?

Peach is native to Northwest China. China, Spain, and Italy are the top three producers of peaches world-wide. The peach is also the state fruit of Georgia. Peach production in the US in 2017 was valued at $599 million. The fruit has a yellow or white flesh, a sweet aroma, and a skin that is either velvety (peaches) or smooth (nectarines).

Cherry laurel vs. European plum: What's The Difference?

Cherry laurel (Prunus laurocerasus) is an evergreen species of cherry, commonly cultivated as an ornamental plant. It is a shrub or a small tree with characteristic glossy, dark green leaves with a leathery texture. Leaves and seeds of cherry laurel contain toxic compounds, which can cause serious poisoning if ingested.

Japanese cherry vs. European plum: What's The Difference?

The japanese cherry tradition, called Hanami, where people have picnics and outdoor parties under these trees, is a popular attraction. The excellent spring colors of the Prunus serrulata tree attract butterflies like the Eastern Tiger Swallowtail. Its showy pink and white flowers are in full bloom in early to mid-spring, and some are fragrant.

Common chokecherry vs. European plum: What's The Difference?

Prunus virginiana, commonly known as common chokecherry, is a deciduous small tree or suckering shrub often confused with chokeberry, due to similarities in the looks of their fruits. The fruits of both species are known for their rich antioxidant content. Common chokecherry plays an important ecological role as a larval host for numerous moth species.

Apricot vs. European plum: What's The Difference?

Apricot (Prunus armeniaca) is a fruit-bearing plant species native to Asia. Although the genus name, "Prunus," means plum, the fruits of this tree are actually apricots. The seeds are occasionally used as substitutes for almonds because they share a similar shape and nutty taste. The apricot has been cultivated by humans for centuries, and was even discovered in the remains of ancient Armenian settlements.

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Key Facts About European plum

Attributes of European plum

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Tree

Plant Height

6 m to 15 m

Spread

10 m

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

1 cm to 1.5 cm

Flower Color

White

Fruit Color

Purple

Red

Black

Yellow

Blue

Stem Color

Green

Red

Brown

Leaf type

Deciduous

The Toxicity of European plum

Slightly Toxic to Humans

Toxic to Dogs

Toxic to Cats

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Scientific Classification of European plum

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Roses, elms, figs, and allies

Family

Rose

Genus

Prunus

Species

European plum (Prunus domestica)

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Distribution Map of European plum

European plum is native to Turkey. This plant has been widely cultivated throughout many regions of the world, for so long that its original habitat is unknown. It has naturalized in temperate regions around the world, and has been listed as invasive in the state of Oregon.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

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A Comprehensive Guide to European plum How to Grow and Care for European plum