Prunus Cerasifera - cherry plum

Prunus Cerasifera, known as cherry plum or wild plum in German, belongs to the Rosaceae family. This species is valued for both its decorative flowers and its edible fruits. Prunus Cerasifera is native to West Asia and Southeast Europe and has been cultivated and naturalized in many other parts of the world. The Prunus genus comprises between 300 and 400 species that are widespread in moderate zones worldwide. This species is often grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks as well as fruit trees.

Morphological characteristics

Prunus Cerasifera is a deciduous shrub or small tree that can reach a height of 4 to 8 meters. The plant has an expansive, often irregular crown with numerous thin, branched drives. The bark is smooth and dark brown to gray. The leaves are elliptical to egg -shaped, 4 to 6 centimeters long and 2 to 3 centimeters wide. They are shiny dark green and brighter on the top. In autumn, the leaves often turn into an attractive yellow or red.

The flowers of Prunus Cerasifera appear in early spring before the leaves sprout. They are arranged individually or in small tufts, have a diameter of about 2.5 centimeters and are dyed to pale pink. Each flower has five petals and numerous yellow stamens. The flowers are very attractive for bees and other pollinators.

After flowering, spherical to egg -shaped fruits, which are known as cherry plums, develop. They are 2 to 3 centimeters in diameter and turn yellow, red or dark purple with ripe. The pulp is juicy and sweet to slightly sour taste. The fruits contain a single, hard core that is not consumed.

Ecological claims and distribution

Prunus Cerasifera prefers sunny to partially shaded locations and thrives best in well -permeable, moderately fertile soils. The plant is relatively resistant to dryness and can adapt to a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy and stony floors. It is hardy and can withstand temperatures up to -20 ° C, which makes it suitable for cultivation in moderate climate zones.

The natural spread of Prunus Cerasifera extends over West Asia and Southeast Europe, including regions such as the Caucasus and the Balkans. Due to its decorative properties and its edible fruits, it is also cultivated in many other parts of the world and is overgrown in some areas.

Cultural and gardening importance

Prunus Cerasifera has a long history of use in garden art and in fruit growing. The plant is often planted in gardens and parks, often because of its attractive flowers in spring and its colorful autumn color. Different varieties, such as the purple cherry plum (Prunus Cerasifera 'Nigra'), are characterized by particularly decorative leaves.

In fruit growing, Prunus Cerasifera is estimated for her fruits, which can be consumed raw or can be processed into jams, juices and other products. The fruits are also an important source of food for wild animals.

Care and increase

The care of Prunus Cerasifera is relatively uncomplicated. The plant only needs minimal care as soon as it is established. A regular pruning promotes a thicker growth shape and removes dead or damaged branches. The plant should be irrigated during longer dry periods to avoid stress. Regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer supports growth and fruit formation.

The increase is mainly through seeds or by finishing. Samples often have to be subjected to cold stamping to break the germ rest. The refinement on suitable documents is often practiced in professional plant production in order to obtain certain varieties.