Prunus americana ~ American Plum

Prunus americana ~ American PlumThe American Plum, scientifically known as Prunus americana, is a small deciduous tree native to North America. Here's some information about it: Appearance: The American Plum typically grows to a height of 15 25 feet (4. 5 7. 5 meters) with a spread of 12 20 feet (3. 5 6 meters). It has a rounded crown and a relatively short trunk. The bark is reddish brown and develops shallow furrows as the tree ages. Foliage: The leaves of the American Plum are

The American Plum, scientifically known as Prunus americana, is a small deciduous tree native to North America. Here's some information about it:

1. Appearance: The American Plum typically grows to a height of 15-25 feet (4.5-7.5 meters) with a spread of 12-20 feet (3.5-6 meters). It has a rounded crown and a relatively short trunk. The bark is reddish-brown and develops shallow furrows as the tree ages.

2. Foliage: The leaves of the American Plum are oval-shaped with serrated edges. They are dark green during the growing season and turn yellow or reddish-purple in the fall before dropping. The foliage provides a nice backdrop for the tree's spring flowers and summer fruits.

3. Flowers: American Plum produces showy white flowers in early spring, usually before the leaves emerge. The flowers are about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter and appear in clusters. They are a valuable source of nectar for bees and other pollinators.

MAINTENANCE NEEDS:   Low Maintenance.  Plum curculio and brown rot can affect the fruit.  Potential diseases include leaf spot, canker and black knot.  Potential  pests include aphids, scale, borers and tent caterpillars.  Remove suckers to prevent unwanted spread.  

LANDSCAPE USES:  Accents or Group Plantings, Borders, Woodland Gardens, Wildlife Garden, Foundation Plantings, Hedges, and Containers.

COMPANION PLANTS:  Clethra, Cephalanthus, Itea

IMAGES: Photo by F. D. Richards, Wild Plum, (2) Photo set by Matt Lavin, Prunus americana - American plum, (2) Prunus americana - American (wild) plum (1)+(2), (3) Photo by Homer Edward Price, American-plum flowers

*As plants have ranges in appearance they may not appear as the images shown.