Prunus Salicina - Chinese plum

Prunus Salicina, generally known as the Chinese plum, belongs to the Rosaceae family. This species is particularly valued for its tasty fruits and decorative flowers. Prunus Salicina originally comes from China, but was widely cultivated and improved in Japan, which is why it is often referred to as Japanese plum. The Prunus genus comprises around 300 to 400 species that are widespread in moderate zones worldwide. This species plays an important role in fruit growing and is grown in various climate zones worldwide.

Morphological characteristics

Prunus Salicina is a deciduous tree that can reach a height of 4 to 10 meters. The plant has an expansive, round crown with numerous thin, branched drives. The bark is smooth and dark brown to gray. The leaves are elliptical to lanceolate, 5 to 10 centimeters long and 2 to 4 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 Salicina appear in early spring before the leaves sprout. They are arranged individually or in small tufts, have a diameter of about 2 to 3 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 Japanese plums, develop. They are 3 to 5 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 Salicina 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 -15 ° C, which makes it suitable for cultivation in moderate climates.

The natural spread of Prunus Salicina extends over China, but due to its importance in fruit growing and its decorative properties, it is cultivated worldwide in moderate and subtropical regions. Countries such as Japan, the USA, Australia and Spain are significant growing areas for this type of plum.

Cultural and gardening importance

Prunus Salicina has a long history of use in fruit growing. It is appreciated for its 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. Different types were bred to improve specific properties such as fruit size, taste and ripening.

In garden art, Prunus Salicina is often planted as an ornamental tree, often because of its attractive flowers in spring and her colorful autumn color. The plant is well suited as a solitaire tree or in mixed plantings and contributes to aesthetic diversity in gardens and parks.

Care and increase

The care of Prunus Salicina 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 propagation is mainly done by finishing on suitable documents in order to obtain certain variety features. The increase by seeds is also possible, but less common, since the resulting plants do not always have the desired properties of the mother plant.