Purple Leaf Plum (Prunus cerasifera): Spring Blossoms, Purple Foliage All Season

Purple Leaf Plum, also called Purple Cherry Plum, is a widely planted ornamental tree celebrated for its intense purple foliage that holds color throughout the growing season and its early spring explosion of pink blossoms. Prunus cerasifera (family Rosaceae) is native to western Asia and the Caucasus but has naturalized across temperate regions worldwide.

Color Through the Seasons

The tree's hallmark is its foliage: emerging deep purple-red in spring, maturing to a rich, dark purple that persists through summer (unlike many "purple" plants that green out), then often turning reddish in fall. In very early spring, before leaves, the bare branches are smothered in fragrant, single, pale pink to white flowers (1 inch), creating a cloud-like effect. Small, 1-inch edible plums (dark purple) may follow, though they're often sparse on ornamental selections.

Taxonomic Classification

Popular Cultivars and Care

The species is rarely planted; cultivars dominate: 'Thundercloud' (classic, 15-25 ft, retains color well), 'Krauter Vesuvius' (darker foliage, more upright), 'Newport' (cold-hardy, zone 4), 'Atropurpurea' (older selection), and 'Nigra' (very dark). All prefer full sun for best color; shade reduces purple intensity. They adapt to various soils but need good drainage.

Purple Leaf Plums are relatively short-lived (15-25 years) and susceptible to several pests and diseases: borers, aphids, tent caterpillars, cankers, and leaf spots. Good cultural practices (proper watering, pruning, sanitation) help. They're excellent as specimen trees, in groupings for mass color, or as street trees where space allows. The early flowers are a critical nectar source for pollinators.