American Plum

Prunus americana
prunier d'Amérique
 
American Plum (Prunus americana) is a small deciduous tree or large shrub known for its showy white flowers and delicious fruit. In early spring, clusters of fragrant white flowers bloom, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies. These flowers give way to round, red-to-yellow plums that ripen in late summer and are favoured by wildlife. The fruits can be eaten fresh or used to make jams, jellies, and preserves. American Plum's dense thickets provide valuable habitat and cover for birds and small mammals. This hardy species thrives in a range of soil conditions and is often used in naturalized landscapes and for erosion control.
 
80cm - 120cm height
 
Associates: Try planting this species with Black Cherry (Prunus serotina), Serviceberry (Amelanchier spp.), and Chokecherry (Prunus virginiana) in similar habitats.
 
Native Status in Ontario: Native
 
Photo Credit: Zack Harris