Cherry Plum (Prunus cerasifera)-Hort Answers - University of Illinois Extension
University of Illinois Extension

University of Illinois Extension

Hort Answers

Tree

Cherry Plum
Prunus cerasifera

 
Features
White to pale pink flowers in spring. 
 
Culture
Full sun; needs well-drained soil; pH adaptable. 
 
Cultivars
  • 'Atropurpurea' has red-purple foliage.
  • 'Mt. St. Helens' has pink flowers and purple foliage.
  • 'Newport' has pink flowers and purple foliage and is hardy to zone 4.
 
 
Mature Height
15-25 Feet
 
Size
Small
 
 
Mature Form
Rounded 
 
Native To:
Europe and Asia 
 
USDA Hardiness Zone
5 - 8 
 
Soil Conditions
Moist, Well-Drained
 
 
Tolerance
Alkaline Soil
 
 
Exposure/Light Requirements
Full Sun
 
 
Uses
Patio
Specimen
 
 
Foliage Color
Green
Purple
 
 
Fall Foliage Color
Green
Purple
 
 
Pests and Problems

Environmental Damage

Fungal Disease

Insect Damage


Additional pests and problems that may affect this plant:

Several including borers, scale insects, tent caterpillars, cankers and leaf spots.  In general plants belonging to the genus Prunus are prone to a number of disease and insect problems and also tend to be short-lived.  Prunus cerasifera may begin to decline after 10-15 years in the landscape.
 
Additional Notes

 

 
Related Resources
Home, Yard & Garden Pest Guide
Illinois Commercial Landscape and Turfgrass Pest Management Handbook
U of IL - Distance Diagnosis through Digital Imaging
U of IL - Plant Clinic