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Description
Prunus Cerasifera Nigra, commonly known as the black cherry plum or purple-leaf plum, is a deciduous tree that is native to western Asia and southeastern Europe. It belongs to the family Rosaceae and is widely cultivated for its ornamental value. The tree can grow up to 6-10 meters tall and 4-6 meters wide, with a rounded or vase-shaped crown. It has a moderate to fast growth rate and can live up to 20-40 years.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Prunus |
Appearance
The black cherry plum has a striking appearance due to its dark purple foliage that turns reddish-bronze in the autumn. It produces small, fragrant flowers that are pink or white in color and bloom in early spring before the leaves appear. The tree also bears small, edible fruits that are round or oval in shape and range in color from yellow to red to dark purple, depending on the variety. The bark is dark brown and has prominent, vertical lines.
Care Guide
The black cherry plum is a relatively low-maintenance tree that can thrive in a wide range of conditions. Here are some tips on how to care for this tree:
- Water: Water deeply and regularly during the first growing season to establish a strong root system. Afterward, water only when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring before new growth appears.
- Soil: The tree prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sand.
- Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can reduce blooming and fruiting.
- Hardiness Zones: The black cherry plum is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The black cherry plum is generally pest and disease resistant, but it can be susceptible to a few issues:
- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can cluster on the leaves and cause damage by sucking sap.
- Black knot: This fungal disease causes dark, swollen growths on the branches and can eventually kill the tree if left untreated.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes brown or black spots on the leaves and can lead to defoliation if severe.
Habitat
The black cherry plum is adaptable to a variety of habitats, including urban and suburban areas. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It is commonly used as a specimen tree or in group plantings for its ornamental value.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Prunus Cerasifera Nigra a fruit-bearing tree?
A: Yes, it produces small, edible fruits that are often used in jams and jellies.
Q: How often should I fertilize my black cherry plum?
A: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a year in early spring before new growth appears.
Q: Can the black cherry plum tolerate drought?
A: It can tolerate some drought once established, but it prefers regular watering.
Q: How long does the black cherry plum live?
A: It can live up to 20-40 years.
Related Plants
- Prunus Serrulata (Japanese cherry)
- Prunus Persica (peach)
- Prunus Avium (sweet cherry)
- Prunus Spinosa (blackthorn)
References
- “Prunus Cerasifera Nigra.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 16 July 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d470>.
- “Prunus Cerasifera Nigra.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 16 July 2021. <https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/14629/i-Prunus-cerasifera-i-Nigra/Details>.
- “Purple-Leaf Plum.” The Spruce. Accessed 16 July 2021. <https://www.thespruce.com/purple-leaf-plum-trees-3269653>.
