🎁 HOLIDAY OFFER 🎁
Free Shipping on 5 or More Plants
🎁 HOLIDAY OFFER 🎁
Free Shipping on 5 or More Plants
🎁 HOLIDAY OFFER 🎁
Free Shipping on 5 or More Plants

American Plum

Prunus americana

$26.00
New

| Hardiness Zones 3-8

Prunus americana, commonly known as the American plum, is a deciduous shrub native to North America, with a rich history and vibrant presence in the landscape. Native American tribes highly value this plant for its fruits, which were used both fresh and dried. The fruits were not only a food source but also a key ingredient in pemmican, a high-energy food that sustained tribes during long winters and travels. The wood of Prunus americana was also utilized for crafting tools and weapons, demonstrating the plant's versatility and utility.

In your garden, Prunus americana adds a touch of historical charm and biodiversity, featuring beautiful white blossoms in the spring and colorful plums in the late summer. This versatile tree not only provides ornamental value but also supports local wildlife, attracting pollinators with its flowers and providing food for birds and other animals with its fruit. Its adaptability to a variety of soil types and conditions makes it an excellent choice for both urban and rural settings, contributing to a rich and diverse garden ecosystem.

Photo courtesy of Rick Webb.

Plant Specs
  • Zones: 3 to 8
  • Sun: Full Sun and Part Shade
  • Soil: Well-drained
  • Growth Rate: Moderate

Pickup available at Aiken Nursery

Usually ready in 2-4 days

Hardiness Zones: 3 - 8

Soil: Well-drained

Sun: Full Sun and Part Shade

Seasonal Behavior: Deciduous

Growth Rate: Moderate

Height at Maturity: 10 - 20 Feet

Spread at Maturity: 10 - 15 Feet

Flower Structure: Produces clusters of fragrant, white flowers in early spring before the leaves emerge.

Blooming Season: Blooms in early to mid-spring, typically April to May.

Fragrance: The flowers have a pleasant, sweet fragrance that attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Visual Impact: The profuse blooming creates a stunning display of white flowers, followed by the development of edible red to yellow plums in late summer.

Read full care instruction manual here.

Light Requirements: Prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Full sun encourages the best flowering and fruit production.

Soil Requirements: Thrives in well-draining soil and is adaptable to various soil types including sandy, loamy, and rocky soils. It prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0).

Watering: Requires regular watering, especially during dry periods and the first growing season to establish a deep root system. Once established, it is moderately drought-tolerant but performs best with consistent moisture.

Temperature and Humidity: Hardy in USDA zones 3-8. It can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and performs well in both humid and dry conditions. Protect young plants from extreme cold in the first year.

Fertilization: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to support healthy growth and fruit production. An annual application of compost can also enhance soil fertility.

Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain shape, remove dead or diseased wood, and encourage healthy new growth. Remove suckers regularly to prevent unwanted spread and maintain a single-trunk form if desired.

Pests and Problems: Generally pest-free but can occasionally attract aphids, borers, and tent caterpillars. Fungal diseases such as black knot and brown rot can occur; ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of fungal issues.

Suitable Environment: Ideal for native plant gardens, wildlife habitats, and as a fruit-bearing ornamental tree. Its spring blossoms attract pollinators, while the summer fruits are enjoyed by birds and other wildlife.

Grown in Aiken, S.C.

At Woodlanders, we are committed to quality.

All our plant material is carefully propagated, grown, and nurtured at our humble nursery in Aiken, South Carolina.

Learn more about Woodlanders here.

Here’s a closer look at how we produce our plants:
from rooting to shipping, our top priority is ensuring you receive healthy, thriving plants for your garden’s success.

The majority of our plants are carefully cultivated from rooted cuttings, while we also utilize propagation methods such as seed, air layering, and grafting, thoughtfully chosen to suit each plant’s unique needs.

Our plants are cultivated using sustainable practices, including organic soil blends and eco-friendly pest management, ensuring they thrive while minimizing environmental impact.

We are proud to contribute to local biodiversity through ongoing donations to the Aiken Arboretum and support for local wildlife conservation efforts, helping to preserve and enhance our community’s natural ecosystems.

Frequently Asked Questions

What to expect upon delivery

All our plants are sold in 1-gallon sizes, though the height of each plant can vary depending on its growth rate and seasonality, typically ranging from 1/2 to 2.5 feet.

Each plant is carefully packaged with its roots enclosed in a secure plastic bag containing moist soil, forming a compact root ball. To ensure safe transport, the box is padded with recycled newspaper, providing both stability and eco-friendly protection from weather during shipping.

What is your return policy?

Review our full return policy information on our SHIPPING AND RETURNS POLICY page.

What payment methods can I use?

We offer 35 different payment methods including major providers like Mastercard, Visa, PayPal, American Express and Diners as well as many different local payment methods including Klarna, iDEAL, AliPay, Sofort, giropay, and many more.

Can I make changes to my order after it’s been placed?

At Woodlanders, we strive to fulfill orders as quickly as possible. Therefore, we can only accommodate changes to your order within the first 24 hours after it has been placed. These changes include adding or removing products and modifying the delivery address. If you need to make any changes or if there has been a mistake with your order information, please reach out to us promptly via our CONTACT page with your order number for the quickest resolution.

Your satisfaction is our priority, and we appreciate your understanding and cooperation.