Wild Plum

Prunus americana

Wild plum is a thicket-forming shrub or small tree with a short trunk and many spreading branches. It has showy white flowers and an edible fruit. It is excellent for wildlife food and cover and for erosion control.

Identifying Characteristics

Height
30 ft
Spread
25 ft
Leaves
alternate, simple, oval, 2" - 4" long; edges finely toothed, dull green
Flowers
white, 1" in diameter, with 5 petals; in clusters of 2-5 flowers
Fruit
globe shaped, 1" in diameter, red-orange
Bark
thin, dark reddish-brown when young; older bark dark and rough
Associated species
Viburnum, eastern redcedar, hawthorn, sumac
Ideal site conditions
average soil, full sun
Value to man
erosion, windbreaks, food
Value to wildlife
food, cover
Growth Rate
fast
Range
Range