Thundercloud Purple Leaf Plum! The Thundercloud Purple Leaf Plum, scientifically known as Prunus cerasifera 'Thundercloud,' is a stunning ornamental tree known for its deep purple foliage. Here's some information about it:
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Appearance: The Thundercloud Purple Leaf Plum is a small to medium-sized deciduous tree that typically reaches a height of 15-25 feet (4.5-7.5 meters) with a similar spread. It has a rounded, compact shape and dense branching. The most striking feature of this tree is its deep purple leaves, which emerge in spring and maintain their color throughout the growing season.
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Flowers: In early spring, before the leaves appear, the Thundercloud Purple Leaf Plum produces small, pinkish-white flowers in clusters. These flowers are not particularly showy but add a delicate touch to the tree's overall beauty.
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Fruits: After the flowers, the tree may produce small, cherry-like fruits that are dark purple to black in color. However, these fruits are typically not significant and are not commonly consumed.
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Type: |
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Origins: |
western Asia and the Caucasus |
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Height: |
15’ - 25’ |
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Spread: |
15’ - 20’ |
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Spacing: |
18’ |
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USDA Hardiness Zone: |
5 - 8 |
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Culture: |
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Bloom Color: |
White |
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Season of Interest: |
MAINTENANCE NEEDS: Low Maintenance. Pests and diseases can be a problem. Watch for aphids, scale, borers, caterpillars, beetles and spider mites. Potential diseases include leaf spot, dieback, leaf curl, powdery mildew, root rot, and fireblight. Cherries have weak wood and are susceptible to breakage.
LANDSCAPE USES: Accents or Group Plantings, Borders, Woodland Gardens, Naturalized Areas, Wildlife Gardens, and Shade Tree.
COMPANION PLANTS: Lilac, Viburnum, Coneflower
IMAGES: Photoset by David J. Stang, (1) Prunus cerasifera Thundercloud 10zz, CC BY-SA 4.0, (2) Prunus cerasifera Thundercloud 16zz, CC BY-SA 4.0, (3) Prunus cerasifera Thundercloud 18zz, CC BY-SA 4.0, (4) Prunus cerasifera Thundercloud 2zz, CC BY-SA 4.0, (5) Stang, Prunus cerasifera Thundercloud 6zz, CC BY-SA 4.0
*As plants have ranges in appearance they may not appear as the images shown.
