A popular flowering plum with deep blackish-purple foliage held all season and single pale-pink blossoms wreathing the bare branches in early spring. A reliable purple-leaf feature tree.
At a glance
- Plant type: Tree
- Mature size: 6 m H × 5 m W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Black Cherry Plum
Prunus cerasifera 'Nigra' is a moderate-growing tree in the Rosaceae family. It reaches around 6 m tall and 5 m wide at maturity, with deciduous and purple-toned foliage. Pink flowers appear in spring.
Where to grow Black Cherry Plum
Black Cherry Plum suits cool-temperate, warm-temperate and Mediterranean climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Black Cherry Plum does best in free-draining and loamy soil. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Black Cherry Plum does best with regular, moderate watering. Feed as new growth begins, following the rate on a balanced garden fertiliser. Keep a newly planted specimen evenly watered through its first season; established plants can then follow the water needs above.
Pruning & care
Prune Black Cherry Plum after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. For most gardens, maintenance is low maintenance.
Using Black Cherry Plum in the garden
Black Cherry Plum earns its place for a feature or specimen planting.
Companion planting & design
Black Cherry Plum sits most comfortably beside plants adapted to regular, moderate watering and cool-temperate climate. A small cluster gives stronger visual impact than isolated plants scattered through the garden.
Buying Black Cherry Plum
Plant Sale lists Black Cherry Plum as advanced specimens and bare-root stock. Availability is confirmed when you request a quote; use the panel above to register interest.
