Cherry Plum Tree 80/100cm (2L)

The cherry plum is a delightful deciduous tree that brings a spectacular display of early spring blossom to gardens across Britain. This vigorous and adaptable member of the Prunus family produces masses of delicate white flowers that smother the bare branches from late February through to April, often appearing before the leaves emerge. These five-petalled blooms create a stunning cloud of white that signals the arrival of spring, attracting bees and other pollinators when few other nectar sources are available.

Following the floral display, the tree develops small, rounded plums that ripen from yellow to red and eventually deep purple throughout summer. These fruits, typically measuring 2-3 centimetres in diameter, are edible and can be used for jams, jellies, and preserves, though they’re often quite tart when eaten fresh. The abundant fruiting makes this tree popular with wildlife, particularly birds who relish the sweet flesh once fully ripened.

The foliage emerges as fresh green leaves that provide a lush canopy throughout the growing season. These oval to elliptic leaves measure 4-6 centimetres long with finely serrated margins, creating dense coverage that offers excellent screening potential. In autumn, the leaves turn attractive shades of yellow and bronze before falling, extending the tree’s seasonal interest well into the cooler months.

Cherry plum establishes readily in most soil types, showing remarkable tolerance for clay, loam, and sandy conditions. It performs best in full sun positions where flowering and fruiting will be most prolific, though it can tolerate partial shade. The tree demonstrates good drought resistance once established, making it suitable for drier gardens, though regular watering during prolonged dry spells in the first two years encourages strong root development.

This species works beautifully as a specimen tree in lawns, as part of mixed borders, or within wildlife gardens where its nectar-rich flowers and nutritious fruits support biodiversity. It can also be incorporated into informal hedging schemes, where its natural spreading habit creates effective screening. The tree’s relatively fast growth rate means it quickly establishes presence in the garden.

Pruning should be carried out in summer after flowering to maintain shape and remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Avoid winter pruning as this increases susceptibility to silver leaf disease and bacterial canker, both common afflictions of Prunus species. Apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring to support vigorous growth and abundant flowering.

Cherry plum thrives in the British climate, showing excellent hardiness and resilience to typical weather conditions. Its early flowering habit means blossoms occasionally face late frosts, though the tree’s prolific blooming usually ensures a good display regardless. The species naturalises easily and has become established in hedgerows and woodland edges throughout the country, testament to its adaptability and vigour.

Ultimate height
4–8 metres

Time to ultimate height
10–20 years

Ultimate spread
4–8 metres

Please note: Decorative pots shown are for display purposes only. Your tree will be supplied in a standard plastic nursery pot shown in the other pictures.