We can all play a role in protecting Florida's natural resources.

Take the FFL Pledge!

Prunus americana American Plum

Edward F. Gilman, Ryan W. Klein, and Gail Hansen


Release Date: 1/17/2024

Reviewed At: 11/24/2023

DOI: 10.32473/edis-fp492-1999

Agriculture

Abstract

This document provides a detailed overview of the American plum (Prunus americana), a native North American tree. It describes the tree’s physical characteristics, including its height, spread, and seasonal changes, such as its white spring flowers and yellow fall foliage. The document also covers the tree’s growth habits, soil and light requirements, and its uses in landscaping. Additionally, it highlights the tree’s resilience to drought and various soil types, while noting its tendency to form multi-stemmed thickets. The document concludes with information on propagation methods and potential pest issues.

About this Publication

This document is FPS492, one of a series of the Department of Environmental Horticulture, UF/IFAS Extension. Original publication date October 1999. Revised October 2023. Visit the EDIS website at https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu for the currently supported version of this publication.

About the Authors

Edward F. Gilman, professor emeritus; Ryan W. Klein, assistant professor, arboriculture; and Gail Hansen, professor, sustainable landscape design; Department of Environmental Horticulture, UF/IFAS Extension, Gainesville, FL 32611.

How to Cite

Gilman, E. (2007). Prunus americana American Plum. EDIS, 2007(16). https://doi.org/10.32473/edis-fp492-1999

Authors

Edward F. Gilman
Edward F. Gilman

professor emeritus, Department of Environmental Horticulture

Ryan Klein
Ryan Klein
Specialist
University of Florida

assistant professor, arboriculture, UF/IFAS School of Forest, Fisheries, and Geomatics Sciences

Gail Hansen
Gail Hansen
Specialist
University of Florida

professor, sustainable landscape design, UF/IFAS Department of Horticultural Sciences

Contacts

Keighly Graves
Keighly Graves
staff
University of Florida

horticultural science specialist, Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Program

Claire Lewis
Claire Lewis
Specialist
University of Florida

state specialized agent II and director Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Program, UF/IFAS Center for Land Use Efficiency

Wendy Wilber
Wendy Wilber
Specialist
University of Florida

state program coordinator and Extension agent IV, UF/IFAS Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Program

Publication #FPS492