Also known as Ameixoeira-De-Jardim · Cherry Plum · Cherry Plum, Myrobalan
Cherry-plum (Prunus cerasifera) is a small deciduous tree or shrub native to Eurasia, popular for its early spring flowers and edible, though often tart, fruits.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and fruiting.
Moderate
50% intensity
Water deeply when soil is dry, reduce in established plants.
Loam, Clay, Sand, Acidic, Neutral, Alkaline
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Hardy in USDA zones 4-8, tolerates both heat and cold once established.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Apply balanced fertilizer in early spring; compost is beneficial.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water cherry-plum regularly during the first year after planting to establish a strong root system. Once established, it is relatively drought-tolerant.
Water deeply when the top 5-7 cm of soil feels dry, especially during prolonged dry spells. Avoid waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot.
Prune cherry-plum in late winter or early spring while the tree is dormant. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Thin out the canopy to improve air circulation and light penetration.
Pruning also helps maintain the desired shape and size, and can encourage better fruit set.
Cherry-plum can be propagated by seed, but cultivars often do not come true to type. For true-to-type propagation, use softwood cuttings taken in early summer or semi-hardwood cuttings in mid-summer.
Grafting onto plum or cherry rootstock is also a common and effective method for cultivar reproduction.
Repotting is generally not applicable to established cherry-plum trees in their natural landscape setting.
Young trees grown in containers may need repotting every 2-3 years in early spring to refresh the soil and provide more space for root growth. Use a well-draining potting mix.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Cherry-Plum (Prunus cerasifera)
Where Cherry-Plum (Prunus cerasifera) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Prunus |
| Species | Prunus cerasifera |
Similar in genus Prunus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
