


Over 25 Feet

Full Sun

3-8

Fruit

Bare-root

NY
Cistena Plum Tree
The Cistena plum tree, also known as Prunus cerasifera 'Cistena,' is a cultivar of the purple-leaf plum. It's known for its stunning reddish-purple foliage and small edible fruits. Here are some landscaping attributes of the Cistena plum tree:
- Foliage: One of the most striking features of the Cistena plum tree is its deep purple foliage. The leaves emerge a rich red-purple in spring and keep their color throughout the growing season, providing a dramatic contrast against green landscapes.
- Size: Cistena plum trees are generally small to medium-sized, reaching around 15 to 25 feet (4.5 to 7.5 meters) and spreading about 10 to 20 feet (3 to 6 meters) wide. This compact size makes them suitable for various landscape settings, including smaller yards.
- Flowers: In early spring, the tree produces small pink flowers covering branches before the leaves emerge. The flowers are a welcome sight after the winter months and add a touch of elegance to the landscape.
- Fruit: The Cistena plum tree produces small, dark purple to black edible fruits. While the fruit is not as commonly used for culinary purposes as some other plum varieties, it can still be enjoyed fresh or used in jams and jellies.
- Drought Tolerance: Cistena plum trees are relatively drought-tolerant once established. This makes them suitable for landscapes with varying water availability.
- Sun Requirements: These plum trees thrive in full sun to partial shade. They thrive in filtered and direct sunlight daily to develop their vibrant foliage color and maintain healthy growth.
- Soil: Cistena plum trees prefer well-draining soil but are adaptable to various soil types. They can tolerate slightly alkaline soils as well.
- Landscape Use: The Cistena plum tree's vibrant leaves and beautiful flowers make it an excellent choice for ornamental purposes. Due to its significant growth, it can be used as a focal point tree in a lawn, as part of a mixed border, or even as a natural hedge or screen.
- Pruning: Pruning can keep the tree's shape and remove dead or diseased branches. Pruning should be done in the dormant season before new growth begins.
Cistena Plum Is a Beautiful Ornamental Tree
Remember that the information provided is based on general knowledge about Cistena plum trees as of my last update in September 2021. I recommend consulting with local nurseries, horticultural experts, or extension services in your area for the most accurate and up-to-date information.