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American Plum

Dense thicket of blackthorn with white blossoms against bare trees and green grass.
Image courtesy of Missouri Botanical Garden.
A branch with white blossoms in a wooded area with fallen leaves.
Image courtesy of Missouri Botanical Garden.
A hand holding a branch with red cherries and green leaves.
Image courtesy of Missouri Botanical Garden.
Dense thicket of blackthorn with white blossoms against bare trees and green grass.
A branch with white blossoms in a wooded area with fallen leaves.
A hand holding a branch with red cherries and green leaves.

Plant Information

Common name: American Plum

Scientific name: Prunus americana

Water usage: Low to moderate

Sun exposure: Full, part sun

Bloom time: Mid to late spring

Fire resistant: No

Wildlife: Attracts pollinators, birds, small mammals  

Native: Yes

Height: 10 to 20 feet

Spread: 15 to 20 feet

Care information

Can form thickets, but can be pruned. Needs rocky/variable soil, edible fruit is produced, showy flowers