Species

Prunus cerasiferaCherry Plum

3 other cultivars

tree

Cherry Plum

Prunus cerasifera 'Thundercloud'

$64.94

The Story

Plant Bio

Prunus cerasifera, the cherry plum, is a deciduous tree native to Southeast Europe and Western Asia, characterized by a dense, rounded habit and twiggy branching. The pale pink or white flowers open in early spring before the foliage, followed by small, fleshy drupes that attract birds and small mammals.

'Thundercloud' is a widely planted cultivar distinguished by its deep reddish-purple foliage that retains its dark coloration throughout the growing season in full sun. The single, pale pink flowers emerge in spring, providing a sharp contrast against the emerging ruby-red new growth.

Uses & Benefits:

Valued for its persistent dark purple foliage and contrasting pale pink spring blossoms.

Serves as an effective medium-sized specimen or screen in urban and suburban landscapes.

Flowers attract bees and beneficial insects, while the small fruits provide food for birds and small mammals.

SpeciesPrunus cerasiferaCherry Plum

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

300"

Width

300"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Medium

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Short to medium

Native To

Southeast Europe, Western Asia, Caucasus, Himalayas

Toxicity

Stems, leaves, and seeds contain cyanogenic glycosides

Bloom period

Spring

In flower about 3 months of the year

Marketplace

Where to Buy

Nature Hills

In Stock$64.94

Fast Growing Trees

In Stock$122.95

Spring Hill Nursery

Bareroot

In Stock$189.99

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Select a planting site in full sun with well-drained, medium-moisture loam.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and of equal depth, ensuring the soil flare is level with the ground.
Backfill with native soil, tamp down lightly to remove air pockets, and water thoroughly.
Apply a 2-to-3-inch layer of organic mulch around the base, keeping it clear of the trunk to prevent rot.

Pro Tip

Plant in full sun to prevent the dark purple foliage from fading to a dull green, and avoid heavy pruning on old wood to prevent weak epicormic shoots that invite canker pathogens.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Plant in full sun to maintain the deep purple foliage color.
Prune lightly immediately after flowering to shape the canopy and remove crossing branches.
Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep root system.

Don't

Do not prune heavily into old wood, as this triggers weak epicormic shoots prone to breakage.
Avoid planting in deep shade, which causes the leaves to turn a dull greenish color.
Do not allow livestock or pets to ingest wilted leaves or seeds due to toxicity.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Pest Check
Prune
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Specimen TreeStreet TreeScreeningAccent Plant

Companion Plants

Cornus florida Viburnum carlesii Spiraea japonica

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Cherry Plum questions

What zones can Cherry Plum grow in?

Cherry Plum is hardy in USDA Zones 5–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

When does Cherry Plum bloom?

Cherry Plum typically blooms in spring through spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Cherry Plum need full sun?

Cherry Plum does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Cherry Plum drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Cherry Plum handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.