Purple-Leaf Plum, Cherry Plum
Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Angiosperms, Class: Eudicots, Order: Rosales, Family: Rosaceae, Genus: Prunus, Species: Prunus cerasifera · Rosaceae (Rose family) · Simple, deciduous
Species
Prunus cerasifera 'Nigra' or 'Pissardii'
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous
Family
Rosaceae (Rose family)
Shape
Ovate to elliptic
Size
Approximately 2-3 inches long; typical range is 1.5-3 inches.
Margin
Serrate (finely toothed)
Arrangement
Alternate
Rarity
Very Common (extremely popular ornamental tree)
Color & Pattern
Deep reddish-purple to burgundy-maroon; coloration is uniform across the upper surface with slightly lighter veins beneath. Known for maintaining its dark pigment throughout the summer.
Venation Pattern
Pinnate (feather-like) with prominent midrib
Texture & Surface
Smooth (glabrous) to slightly leathery; matte to semi-glossy finish.
Description
A small deciduous tree reaching 15-25 feet. It is celebrated for its early spring blossoms of pink or white followed by intense dark purple foliage. The bark is dark, smooth when young, and develops shallow fissures with age.
Key Features
Ovate purple leaves with serrated margins, alternate arrangement, and a thin, dark petiole.
Habitat
Widely cultivated in urban and suburban landscapes; prefers well-drained soil and full sun for best color development.
Geographic Range
Native to Southeast Europe and Western Asia; widely naturalized and planted across North America and temperate regions globally.
Condition Notes
Excellent; the leaf appears vibrant with no visible insect damage (which is common for the genus) or fungal spots like rust.
Interesting Facts
One of the first trees to bloom in spring, often signaling the end of winter. The 'Pissardii' variety was discovered in Persia in the 1800s.
Medicinal & Uses
Primary use is ornamental landscaping. Produces small, edible (though often sour) plums used in jellies.
Ecological Role
Early spring nectar source for pollinators; fruit provides food for birds and small mammals.
Similar Species
Purple-leaf Sand Cherry (Prunus x cistena) which is more shrub-like, and Copper Beech (Fagus sylvatica) which has wavy margins and different venation.
Foraging Tips
Look for the dark purple foliage in early summer; the presence of small, round, edible drupes in late summer confirms identification.
Toxicity Warning
Mildly Toxic; like many in the Prunus genus, the seeds (pits), twigs, and wilted leaves contain cyanogenic glycosides and should not be consumed by humans or pets.