Purple Leaf Plum

Purple Leaf Plum Overview

Scientific Name: Prunus cerasifera
Common Names: Purple Leaf Plum, Cherry Plum
Native to: Central and Western Asia, widely cultivated in temperate regions worldwide
Lighting Requirements: Full sun
Height: 15–25 feet
Width: 15–20 feet
Winter Look: Deciduous; loses its leaves in winter, leaving smooth, gray bark with occasional gnarled branches
Seasonal Interest: Dark purple foliage that provides vibrant color throughout the growing season; small, fragrant white to pink flowers in early spring before leaves emerge; produces small, round fruits that resemble plums in late summer
Drought Tolerance: Moderate; drought-tolerant once established but benefits from regular watering during dry periods
Soil Requirements: Well-drained, fertile soil; adapts to a variety of soil types
pH Range: 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 4–9
Deer Resistance: Low to moderate; deer may browse on the foliage and young shoots
Attracts: Bees, butterflies (flowers); birds (fruit)
Potential Issues: Susceptible to diseases like leaf spot and powdery mildew; pests such as aphids and scale can also affect the tree
Notes: Purple Leaf Plum is a small ornamental tree known for its striking dark purple foliage that remains vibrant throughout the growing season. It’s prized for its early spring blooms, which provide a burst of color in the garden before most other trees flower. The tree's small, round fruits are edible but generally not as flavorful as cultivated plums. This tree is commonly used in ornamental landscaping for its colorful leaves and showy spring flowers. While it tolerates various soil types, it prefers well-drained, fertile soil and benefits from regular watering during dry spells. It’s a fast-growing tree, making it a good choice for quickly adding color and texture to gardens.

I have yet to see these perform well in Central Texas. However, the trees I've observed were in rocky limestone soil and most likely not fertilized regularly.