Plum Fruit Tree: Prunus Domestica
Plum fruit trees produce smooth-skinned, juicy produce with various colors, including red, purple, and yellow, typically surrounded by oval-shaped leaves. They are versatile and attractive types with numerous benefits when incorporated into landscaping designs. With its ornamental features and adaptability, it can enhance the visual appeal of outdoor spaces. Also known as Prunus domestica, and they will give you plenty of them after the first three to six years. When one of these deciduous plants is first planted, they'll appear shrub-like.
The Flowers Of The Plum Fruit Tree
Although most people plant one of these to receive free produce, there is much more for you to enjoy. For instance, they flower during the springtime. Each cluster of primarily white flowers also contains light green and little yellow balls that attract pollinators. Interestingly, the flowers will appear before the foliage arrives. As clusters, several clumps of flowers will be mashed together to create visual appeal.
Shortly after the flowers make their appearance, you'll begin to notice immature leaves. These leaves grow in little clusters, and their bright, vivid green coloring will transition into a slightly softer green as they age. Each leaf starts larger at the base before tapering into almost a point. They have ridged edgings, along with some natural variations in tone.
The Fruits Of Plum Fruit Trees
Once the
flower clusters die away, they'll be replaced by tons of produce. These are spherical or oval in shape, and they grow up to three inches wide. It goes through a massive color change to help designate whether it's ripe. When it's green-toned, it is not ripe yet. In this state, they can almost blend in with their surrounding leaves. Eventually, though, they'll change into a purple or reddish color. Not only will their new coloring make them pop, but it's also an indicator of ripeness.
Different Varieties Of Plum Fruit Trees
There are two major categories of them: Santa Rosa and Methley. Within these categories are found subcategories, and the specific type you plant will determine their exact coloring. Regardless of which type you plant, you can look forward to tons of produce. They will pay for themselves over time and are quite attractive to boot!
Do they grow in America
Yes, they are grown throughout America, and there are different types for different zones. They are grown for commerce and local consumption in yard and garden plantings, primarily in California and Michigan.
Where do they grow best?
They bear best in slightly alkaline soil which should be well drained with good exposure to sunlight. These prefer areas with moderately cold winters and relatively higher temperatures during summer, a condition prevailing in temperate climates.
What is special about them?
They are particularly valued for the use of both produce and ornamental importance when in blossom during spring.
Where are they grown in the USA?
Commercial types are mostly grown in the US, especially in California, because of its mild climate. The other big states are Michigan, Oregon and Washington.
What is the best climate for them?
Outside of these parameters, plum fruit trees prefer moderate winters and warm summers to get the right climate for growth. These depend on the chilling hours to set produce, hence suitable for regions with relatively moderate cold winters.