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Description
Prunus Angustifolia, commonly known as Chickasaw Plum, is a deciduous shrub or small tree that belongs to the Rosaceae family. This plant is native to the southeastern United States and can grow up to 20 feet tall. It typically has a single trunk and a rounded crown.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Prunus |
| Species | Prunus angustifolia |
Appearance
Prunus Angustifolia has a smooth, reddish-brown bark that becomes scaly as it ages. The leaves are oval-shaped, finely serrated, and can grow up to 3 inches long. They are dark green on top and lighter on the underside. The flowers are white, fragrant, and grow in clusters of 2-5. They bloom in early spring before the leaves appear. The fruit is a small, round, yellow or red plum that ripens in late summer.
Care Guide
Prunus Angustifolia is relatively easy to care for. Here are some tips:Water: Water regularly during the growing season, but make sure the soil is well-drained.Fertilization: Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.Soil: The plant prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soil.Sunlight: Prunus Angustifolia needs full sun to thrive.Hardiness Zones: This plant can tolerate a range of temperatures and is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Prunus Angustifolia is relatively pest and disease resistant, but it can be susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and plum curculio. It may also develop brown rot, black knot, or powdery mildew.
Habitat
Prunus Angustifolia is commonly found in open woodlands, along streams, and in disturbed areas. It is native to the southeastern United States, including parts of Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, Florida, South Carolina, and North Carolina.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Prunus Angustifolia an edible plant?
A: Yes, the fruit of Prunus Angustifolia is edible and can be used to make jams, jellies, and pies.Q: Can Prunus Angustifolia grow in containers?
A: Yes, Prunus Angustifolia can be grown in containers, but it may not reach its full potential.Q: How often should I prune Prunus Angustifolia?
A: Pruning should be done in late winter to early spring before new growth appears. Remove dead or diseased wood and thin out crossing branches to improve air circulation.Q: How long does it take for Prunus Angustifolia to bear fruit?
A: Prunus Angustifolia can produce fruit as early as 2-3 years after planting.
Related Plants
- Prunus Americana
- Prunus Cerasifera
- Prunus Domestica
- Prunus Persica
References
- “Prunus Angustifolia.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 13 August 2021. www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b725.
- “Chickasaw Plum.” Texas A&M Forest Service. Accessed 13 August 2021. https://texasforestservice.tamu.edu/plant/plant-details.php?plant=Chickasaw+plum.
- “Prunus Angustifolia.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. Accessed 13 August 2021. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/fp014.
