European plum (Prunus domestica) Tree, Flower, Uses

European plum

Also known as: Damson plum, Prune Plum, Plum Tree, Common plum, Damson

Prunus domestica is a small deciduous tree and the most common orchard plum in Europe and other regions of the world. It is a hybrid species that had most likely evolved from the wild Cherry plum, Prunus cerasifera. The fruit is elongated, fleshy, and usually sweet. Dried fruits of european plum are called prunes.

Scientific classification

Species

European plum (Prunus domestica)

Roses, elms, figs, and allies

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Toxic to Human & Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Tree

Plant Type

Early spring, Mid spring

Bloom Time

Summer

Harvest Time

6 m to 15 m

Plant Height

10 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

1 cm to 1.5 cm

Flower Size

Purple, Red, Black, Yellow, Blue

Fruit Color

White

Flower Color

Green, Red, Brown

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of European plum

Distribution of European plum

Distribution Map

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

Introduced

No species reported

Discover plant distribution and habitat

Gain insights into where plants thrive and how they adapt, helping you identify, cultivate, and protect them with essential information on habitats, distribution maps, and climate trends.

Download the App for Free

Habitat

Hedges

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

European plum is prized for the white flowers it produces in the spring, making it attractive as a specimen in gardens and yards. In addition to being an eye-catching ornamental, it is often used to attract birds and is also valued for its disease resistance. Potential companions for the european plum include herbs like mint, sage, and rosemary.

Symbolism

The coming of spring, life transitions, perseverance, hope, abundance, temptation

Interesting Facts

European plum is one of the most economically important stone fruits due to the many ways it's used. It can be processed to make jams and beverages, such as plum brandy, or dried to make prunes.

Name Story

Common plum: The word “plum” can be traced back to the ancient Greek word “prounon”. Interestingly, this Greek word is actually a loan word from another language located in the region of Anatolia. In the 1780s, the word “plum” held the meaning "something desirable", probably due to the popularity of sugar-rich plum pudding at that time. As it was also the most common among the prunus, it is called common plum.

Get quick plant knowledge with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant identification and learn about its name, symbolism, interesting facts, uses, and more.

Download the App for Free

Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of European plum, including the following common varieties :

European plum 'Marjorie's Seedling'European plum 'Victoria'

Toxicity

European plum contains cyanide precursors in every part except its fruit. Consuming any part, especially seeds or leaves, turns cyanotoxins into cyanide gas upon contact with stomach acid. This gas poisons humans and animals, causing symptoms from agitation to death. Particularly toxic to cats and dogs, ingestion necessitates urgent veterinary attention. Mature or dying plants are more hazardous. Symptoms include vomiting, difficulty breathing, and tremors.

Identify toxic plants in your garden

Find out what’s toxic and what’s safe for humans and pets.

Download the App for Free

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.

Identify plants with a snap

Instantly identify plants with AI: Snap a photo, and get accurate results within seconds.

Download the App for Free

Care Guide for European plum

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Originating from diverse climates, european plum thrives with moderate moisture and can withstand short dryness. Water once every 1-2 weeks, adjusting for dormancy in colder months to decrease water needs.

Fertilize: Fertilize european plum with balanced nutrition in early spring and mid-summer, following recommended dosages to prevent growth issues. Adjust fertilizer type and quantity based on seasonal growth stages. Use slow-release formulas for sustained feeding and avoid root burn for optimal health and productivity.

Pruning: European plum produces sweet, juicy fruits and thrives with careful late winter pruning. This practice reduces disease risk, enhances sunlight penetration, and improves air circulation. Focus on removing dead wood and thinning the canopy to maintain shape and boost yield.

Propagation: European plum is a resilient species that requires proper care for successful propagation. Utilize semi-hardwood cuttings from healthy branches, applying rooting hormone to enhance roots. Plant in well-draining, moisture-retentive soil, maintaining consistent watering and warmth, away from direct sunlight for optimal growth.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free

Images of European plum

Distribution of European plum

Culture

Cultivars

Toxicity

Quickly Identify European plum

Care Guide for European plum

PEOPLE ALSO ASK

Common Pests & Diseases