Purple Leaf Plum
Prunus cerasifera · Deciduous Broadleaf
Plant Family
Rosaceae
Tree Category
Ornamental Flowering Tree
Variety / Cultivar
Most likely 'Atropurpurea' or 'Thundercloud'
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 4 through 9
About This Tree
A small deciduous tree or large shrub with a rounded, dense crown. Known for its early spring blossoms and striking reddish-purple foliage that remains dark throughout the season.
Leaf Characteristics
Simple, ovate to elliptic shape, 1.5-3 inches long. Alternate arrangement with finely serrated margins. Emerge reddish-purple, maturing to a dark purple or bronzy-green.
Bark Characteristics
Dark brown to blackish color. Smooth when young, developing light furrows and a rough, scaly texture with age. Small lenticels are often visible.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to Southeast Europe and Southwest Asia; widely naturalized in North America
Growing Season
Leafs out in early spring; flowers in late winter to early spring before leaves; fruits in summer; enters dormancy in late autumn
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun for best leaf color. Moderate water needs; prefers moist, well-drained loamy soils but has moderate drought tolerance once established.
Mature Size
Height of 15-25 feet, spread of 15-25 feet. Fast growth rate when young, slowing with age. Lifespan is relatively short (20-30 years).
Special Characteristics
Exceptional ornamental value due to purple foliage. Susceptible to several pests (borers, aphids) and diseases (black knot, leaf spot). Used primarily for landscape contrast.
Wildlife & Ecology
Flowers provide early nectar for honeybees and other pollinators. Small drupe fruit (plums) are edible and consumed by birds and small mammals. Provides dense cover for nesting birds.