Chickasaw Plum (Prunus angustifolia)
Regular price $79.97Common Names: Chickasaw Plum, Sand Plum, Mountain Cherry
Family: Rosaceae
Origin: Southeastern United States
Chickasaw Plum (Prunus angustifolia) is a native North American shrub known for its attractive spring blooms and tasty, small plums. This resilient and adaptable plant is widely valued for its ornamental beauty, wildlife benefits, and fruit production. Chickasaw Plum is a fantastic addition to natural landscapes, edible gardens, and even as a natural hedgerow or windbreak.
Distinctive Features and Uses
Leaves: The shrub features narrow, lance-shaped, bright green leaves that turn yellow in the fall, providing seasonal interest.
Flowers: In early spring, Chickasaw Plum bursts into bloom with clusters of fragrant, white flowers that cover the branches before the leaves emerge. These flowers attract bees and other pollinators, making it an essential plant for supporting local ecosystems.
Fruits: The small, round plums ripen from yellow to red in late summer. The fruits are sweet and slightly tart, perfect for fresh eating, jams, jellies, and even homemade wines.
Ecological Importance and Uses
Chickasaw Plum is an important plant in its native range, providing food and shelter for wildlife. Birds, deer, and small mammals feast on the fruits, while the dense thickets it forms offer cover and nesting sites. This shrub is also used in restoration projects to stabilize soil and prevent erosion, particularly in sandy or disturbed sites.
In addition to its ecological benefits, Chickasaw Plum is prized for its fruit, which can be eaten fresh or used in a variety of culinary applications. The plums are often used in traditional Southern recipes, including preserves and pies.
Quick Care Guide
| Plant Type | Deciduous Shrub/Small Tree |
| Harvest Season | Late Summer |
| Mature Size | 6-12 feet tall, 6-10 feet wide
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| Soil & Moisture | Well-draining, loamy or sandy soils; moderately drought-tolerant |
| Light Requirements | Full Sun to Partial Shade |
| Growth Rate | Fast |
| Self-fertile | Partially (better fruit set with cross-pollination) |
| Zone Hardiness | Outdoors 5-10; Patio/Greenhouse 4+ |
| Propagation | Our Chickasaw Plum is grown from seeds and root suckers, capable of fruiting within a few years. These seeds were collected in Central Florida. |
Full Growing Guide
Climate and Soil Requirements
- Climate: Chickasaw Plum thrives in temperate to warm climates and is best suited for USDA hardiness zones 5-9. The plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and is both heat- and cold-tolerant, making it a hardy choice for many regions.
- Soil: Prefers well-draining, loamy or sandy soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.5). Chickasaw Plum can adapt to various soil types, including poor soils, but performs best in fertile, well-drained locations.
Planting
- Location: Choose a sunny to partially shaded location. Chickasaw Plum performs best in full sun but can tolerate partial shade, especially in hotter climates.
- Soil Preparation: Prepare the soil by tilling and adding compost or organic matter to enhance fertility and drainage.
- Planting Time: Plant Chickasaw Plum in the spring or fall when temperatures are mild. Space plants 6-10 feet apart to allow adequate room for growth and air circulation.
- Naturalizing: Chickasaw Plum can spread through root suckers, forming thickets over time. Consider this when selecting a planting site, or manage suckers to control the spread.
Watering
- Establishment Phase: Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during the first year. Consistent moisture is crucial for young plants.
- Mature Plants: Once established, Chickasaw Plum is moderately drought-tolerant. Water deeply and less frequently, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
Sunlight
- Full Sun to Partial Shade: Ensure the plants receive at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and fruit production.
Fertilizing
- Growing Season: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth and fruiting. Supplement with organic matter or compost.
- Frequency: Fertilize once a year in early spring. Over-fertilizing can lead to excessive vegetative growth at the expense of fruit production.
Pruning and Maintenance
- Routine Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring to remove dead or damaged stems and to shape the plant. Regular pruning encourages more vigorous growth and better fruit production.
- Thicket Management: If you wish to control the spread of Chickasaw Plum, prune or remove root suckers regularly. Alternatively, allow the plant to form a natural thicket for wildlife habitat.
Pest and Disease Management
- Common Pests: Monitor for pests such as aphids, Japanese beetles, and tent caterpillars. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control infestations.
- Diseases: Watch for signs of fungal diseases such as leaf spot and black knot. Ensure proper spacing, good air circulation, and avoid overhead watering to reduce disease risk. Apply fungicides if necessary.
Harvesting Fruits
- When to Harvest: Fruits are typically ready to harvest in late summer when they turn red and are slightly soft to the touch. The flavor is best when the fruit is fully ripe.
- How to Harvest: Gently pick the fruits by hand. They can be eaten fresh, used in preserves, or processed into various culinary delights.
