Purple Leaf Plum

Introduction

The Purple Leaf Plum is a small deciduous, ornamental, flowering tree that has brilliant, purple color throughout the growing season. Although it is short lived (15 – 25 years), the tree should be used more often, adding a unique touch to any landscape with its purple to maroon color.

Use and Management

The Purple Leaf Plum has wonderful blooms in spring and produces edible fruits for wildlife. Can be used as a small shade tree or as additional color in a garden or against a light-colored wall.

The Purple Leaf Plum should be grown in full sun on well-drained soil, acid soil to bring out the richest leaf color. It tolerates slightly alkaline soil. Tolerant of moderate heat and drought, it often succumbs to borers on poor, compacted soil.

Additional Characteristics

• Soil Moisture: Moist, Well Drained
• Soil Types/Tolerance: Clay; Loam; Sand; Acidic; Well Drained
• Additional Features: None
• Special Resistance: Borers are a problem

Planting

• Typically planted in 10, 15, 30, 45 or 65 gal containers
• B&B trees are specified in height (6’ – 8’ ht, etc) or caliper (3” cal., etc)
• Container trees can be double the price of B&B trees
• Plant container trees in late summer, if price allows
• Plant B&B trees if they were dug and cured in the winter months