Cherry plum
Profile
- Family
- Rosaceae
- Habit
- Tree
- Height
- 7.5 m
- Spread
- 9 m
- Growth
- medium
- Lifespan
- 60 years
- First yield
- after 3 years
- Hardiness
- zone 4–9
- Shade tolerance
- partial shade
- Soil
- Sand, Silt, Loam, Clay
- Soil moisture
- dry – very moist
- pH
- 5 – 8
- Synonyms
- Myrobalane
Flowering & harvest
| J | F | M | A | M | J | J | A | S | O | N | D | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flowering | ||||||||||||
| Fruit harvest |
Uses
Medicinal: Flower: Bach Flower (fear of losing control and committing terrible acts) Fruit: Pectin, Vitamins A & C, Antioxidants (for constipation, for intestinal health, lowers cholesterol) Seeds: Hydrocyanic acid, Vitamin B17 (high amounts can be fatal)
Other uses: Leaves change color, fruits become dark. The tough wood is suitable for making jewelry and bowls, providing diversity as well as acting as a windbreak and rootstock for certain fruit trees.
Notable
Special features: the most site-tolerant (salt, limestone, slope, etc.) wild "plum"; the early blooms smell good and attract countless bees, butterflies, etc.; differs from Mirabelle: this is thornless, blooms later, the leaves are toothed instead of serrated, and the fruits easily separate from the stone; various varieties for different fruit, leaf, and flower colors.
Origin & habitat
Western Asia? The original habitat is uncertain. It is commonly planted in hedges but seldom becomes naturalized.
Found in hedgerows.
⚠️ Hazards
Toxicity: slightly toxic
Although there is no specific mention of this species, it is part of a genus where most, if not all, members produce hydrogen cyanide. This toxin, responsible for the characteristic flavor of almonds, is mainly found in the leaves and seeds and is easily recognized by its bitter taste. While usually present in harmless quantities, caution should be taken with very bitter seeds or fruits. In small doses, hydrogen cyanide has been known to enhance respiration and aid digestion, with some suggesting its potential benefits in cancer treatment. Nevertheless, excessive intake can lead to respiratory issues and potentially fatal outcomes.
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