Purple Leaved Plum, Cherry Plum

Introduced in the early 1900s, this form of the Cherry Plum, also known as Myrobolan, usually sets only a few red fruits.

A popular tree often planted along city streets or verges, it is easy to maintain in a garden as it responds well to even severe winter pruning. An overgrown specimen in a garden was once reduced by approximately 60%, initially raising some scepticism. However, the tree regenerated vigorously, and the same pruning method has since been applied every five years with considerable success.

It is most effective as a multi-stem tree to show off its fantastic dark foliage from a low level.

A small tree with a rounded form, the Prunus cerasifera Nigra multi-stem is most notable for its purple leaves and stems. However, we also offer a single-stemmed Prunus cerasifera Nigra, ideal for those seeking a more traditional appearance.

Early pink spring flowers fade to white before the leaves take full effect. This robust performer thrives on most free-draining soils.

Mature height: 3-7m

Common names

Purple Leaved Plum, Cherry Plum

Height of tree

3-7m

Soil type

Well drained, Will tolerate most soil types

Shape

Multi-stemmed

Blossom Colour

Pink

Foliage Colour

Red/Purple

Information Flags

Good for bees

Looks good in

Summer, Spring

Location

Garden, Parkland

Genus

Prunus