A small ornamental tree valued for its early spring blossoms and often colorful foliage depending on cultivar. The edible cherry-plum fruits are small but sweet, and the tree is hardy and adaptable to urban conditions.
Overview
Form
Rounded
Growth Rate
fast
Size
20–30′ tall × 15–25′ wide
Dormancy
deciduous
Tolerances & Soil
Zone 5aZone 9b
1471013
ColderWarmer
Zone range: Zone 5a to Zone 9b
Seasonality
Bloom Season
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Harvest Season
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Season of Interest
Spring
Sub-canopy
Smaller trees living beneath the canopy.
Succession Role
pioneerearly successional
Native Range
Western Asia
Function & Care
ediblehedgerowpollinator nectarywildlife benefit
Edible Parts
fruit
Establishment & Care
Establishment
easy
Maintenance
moderate
Years to Bearing
3 years
Propagation
seed, cutting, grafting
Notable Cultivars
Thundercloud and Krauter Vesuvius are the most widely planted selections, prized for their deep purple foliage throughout the season and their use as ornamental street trees. Both produce pink spring blossoms and small dark fruits attractive to wildlife.
