Species cherry plum
light-pink flowers with maroon center with brown leaves and branches

cherry plum

Prunus cerasifera 'Krauter Vesuvius'

The cherry plum (Prunus cerasifera 'Krauter Vesuvius') is a wonderful ornamental shrub or small tree for garden or landscaping needs. It has very attractive dark red-violet foliage, and showy white spring flowers with yellow stamens. The leaves develop bright red spots in autumn. In mid-summer the plant produces edible, bright red fruit that is similar to true plums in shape, color, and taste. The cherry plum is easy to grow and care for, and grows best in full sun. With its vigorous growth, this deciduous tree can reach up to 10 feet in height and can live for up to 40 years.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Air Layering Propagation,Grafting Propagation,Cutting,Budding,Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

5 - 8

Flowers:

Pink Flowers In Spring

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Fruits:

purple Fruits Ready In Summer

Edible:

Yes

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

red,purple

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Thorny:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Water cherry plum trees deeply and infrequently. It's best to soak the soil to a depth of 12 to 18 inches every 7 to 10 days during the growing season. Cherry plum trees should not be watered during times of excessive rain. In the winter months, water every 10 to 14 days as needed if there is very little rainfall. If you notice that the foliage looks wilted or dull, it’s likely an indication that the tree needs a good drink!

sunlight

Cherry plum plants require full sun for optimal growth and fruiting. Plant in a location that receives at least 8 hours of direct sunlight each day, ideally between 8am and 6pm. However, it is important to note that in hotter climates, such as the southern United States, these plants may benefit from some afternoon shade to protect them from the harsh midday sun. During the summer months, cherry plum plants can benefit from up to 12 hours of direct sunlight a day.

pruning

Pruning cherry plum trees should generally take place in late winter or early spring before bud emergence. Pruning should be done lightly to maintain the natural shape of the plant. Dead and diseased branches, along with any crossing or rubbing branches, should be removed. This will help to encourage the healthy growth of young vigorous shoots. Prune out any stems or branches that are growing inward as well as any stems that are growing straight up. You can also reduce the height and width of the plant by pruning away long branches. The best way to bring out the natural shape and health of the cherry plum tree is to prune it slowly. It is not necessary to prune the trees back drastically – too much pruning can be detrimental to its growth and fruit production.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Prunus cerasifera 'Krauter Vesuvius' typically starts flowering in April.

Harvest Fruit

The best time to start harvesting Prunus cerasifera 'Krauter Vesuvius' is typically in July or August.

Hardiness Map