(Flowering Plum, Purple-Leaf Plum)
SIZE: Small (Height: 20-25'; Spread: 15').
GROWTH RATE: Fast.
FOLIAGE: Burgundy or purple-green, serrated oval leaves, 2-3" long. Tree is bare November-January.
FLOWER/FRUIT/BARK: Many light pink, fragrant flowers, 1" across, along bare branches, bloom late January-February. Insignificant fruit. Rough dark brown bark.
MONTHLY WATERING NEEDS: 15-20 gallons per week for the first 2 years; 15-20 gallons twice a month for the 3rd year; as needed after 3 years (varies by soil, sun, and wind conditions).
TREE CARE: Moderate. Early pruning needed to train a good shape; pruning needed less frequently with age. Annual thinning of crossed and crowded branches. Requires removal of suckers.
TOLERANCES: Any soil.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS: Prefers sun or partial shade. Does not tolerate steady winds which can defoliate upper branches. Susceptible to shothole fungus, which is cosmetic but not fatal.
NOTABLE TRAITS: One of the first trees to bloom in the spring, fragrant flowers. Good tree for 2x3' basins and beneath overhead wires. Attracts bees.
ALTERNATE FORMS: P. cerasifera 'Thundercloud' has rounder, more coppery leaves. P. blireiana has greenish red leaves and deep pink, double flowers, and is susceptible to leaf curl and pests.