American plum (Prunus americana)

American plum

American plum (Prunus americana) is a fruit bearing plant species native to the eastern and central United States and Canada. It is similar to the Canadian plum, but the two species can be distinguished. The fruit of the american plum is a bright red, while the fruit of the Canadian plum is yellow.

Scientific classification

Species

American plum (Prunus americana)

Roses, elms, figs, and allies

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Toxic to Human & Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Tree, Shrub

Plant Type

Spring

Bloom Time

2 cm

Flower Size

Red, Purple, Burgundy, Lavender

Fruit Color

White

Flower Color

Red, Brown, Burgundy

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of American plum

Attributes of American plum

Growth Rate

Exhibiting a moderate growth rate, american plum manifests a pronounced development during Spring and Summer. Growth speed influences key phenologies: springtime witnesses bud break and blossoming, while summer encourages leaf expansion and height advancement. Its rate might vary slightly in other seasons but shows significance in the specified ones, offering horticultural interest. With calculated watering and nutritional supplementation during these seasons, american plum's growth could impact its successful fruiting.

Distribution of American plum

Distribution Map

American plum is a fruit tree native to North America and Turkey. It has been introduced in Eurasia, Africa, Oceania, and Africa. It grows naturally in forests of deciduous trees and alongside bodies of water such as streams and swamps.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Mixed deciduous woodland, by streams, borders of swamps, hedgerows

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

American plum is one of the most commonly planted fruit trees across the temperate world for a variety of reasons. Its abundance of spring flowers, delicious summer fruit, deep fall foliage, and elegant winter shape make it perfect as a lawn and public garden tree. American plums can be grown together and pruned to create a border or screen or simply grown as specimen pieces. Some example companion plants are arrow-leaved aster, black cherry, bur oak, or riverbank grape.

Symbolism

Hope of the spring, endurance

Interesting Facts

American plum has a number of interesting uses. It can be used as an ornamental tree for its pretty flowers. It can also be used to create a windbreak because of its dense growth habit. Wildlife enjoy eating the fruit, leaves, and twigs of the tree. The fruit can be eaten by people, however, there are varieties of this tree cultivated specifically for culinary use.

Name Story

American plum: It is commonly confused with the Canada plum (Prunus nigra), although the fruit is smaller, rounder and bright red as opposed to yellow. Since this is a species of Prunus native to North America, it is called American plum.

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Toxicity

The american plum contains cyanide precursors in all parts except its fruit. Consuming the seeds, leaves, or other parts results in cyanide gas formation in the stomach, leading to poisoning. Symptoms start with agitation, progressing to weakness, coordination loss, difficulty moving or speaking, slowed respiration and heartbeat, and finally, death.

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Quickly Identify American plum

Deciduous with broad, spreading crown, growing 10-20 feet (3-6 meters) tall.

Flowers in clusters of 2-5 with symmetrical white petals, 1 inch (2.5 cm) wide.

Round edible plums, 1 inch (2.54 cm) in diameter, ripening to red-purple in July-August.

Toothed, oblong leaves, 3-4 inches (7.6-10.2 cm) long, turning yellow to red in autumn.

Dark reddish-brown stem, 0.5-2 inches (1.3-5 cm) diameter, with thorny lateral branchlets.

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Care Guide for American plum

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: American plum adapts well to variable moisture and demonstrates moderate drought tolerance. Water every 1-2 weeks to avoid over- or under-watering. Best grown outdoors, american plum benefits from seasonal rainfall, promoting growth and flowering in spring.

Fertilize: To ensure optimal growth of american plum, use balanced fertilizers annually at bud break, applying per product guidelines to avoid over-fertilization. Young trees need lighter, frequent applications. Gently incorporate into soil and water deeply after fertilizing to enhance nutrient uptake.

Pruning: American plum is a deciduous shrub valued for its small plums and spring blossoms. Prune in late winter to remove dead and crossing branches, which promotes growth and air circulation. Thinning crowded stems enhances fruit production and overall health. Seek regional advice from local extension services.

Propagation: American plum is a versatile deciduous shrub ideal for landscaping and wildlife. Propagate using softwood cuttings in late spring, ensuring several nodes and leaves are included. Apply rooting hormone and plant in well-draining media. Maintain consistent moisture and indirect light until established, then transition outdoors.

Repotting: For american plum, repot every 2-3 years in early spring to support root growth. Use a large container with well-draining soil. Maintain consistent moisture without overwatering to ensure successful recovery and promote robust growth.

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Images of American plum

Attributes of American plum

Distribution of American plum

Culture

Toxicity

Quickly Identify American plum

Care Guide for American plum

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