Cistena Plum

Cistena Plum Trees for Sale (Prunus × Cistena)

The Cistena Plum Trees are glorious, fruit bearing tree that shine in every season. It is also known as the red leaf plum or purple leaf cherry tree, because of its purple and red coloring in the leaves and bark. The fruits are drupes – a fleshy fruit with thin skin and a stone pit, and are somewhere between the size of a plum and a cherry.

These fruits are a favorite of birds and small mammals, so they are a perfect choice for a wildlife lover's garden. The delicate pink and white flowers against the purple-red branches makes for a warm, vibrant centerpiece for your garden space.

Cistena Plum Plant Details 

Family: Rosaceae

Light Requirement: Full sun

Water Needs: Moderate

Height: 5-8 ft

Spread: 5-8 ft

Soil Preference: Moist, well drained, clay, loam, sand

Season of Interest: Spring, Summer

Flower Color: Pink, White

Fruit: Purple-red drupes

Wildlife Value: Birds, Butterflies, Bees

Notable Characteristics of Cistena Plum Trees

This purple-red tree is often considered a shrub because of its woody, twiggy appearance. The Cistena Plum grows in an upright pattern but spreads out as it matures, stretching its branches horizontally. It can be left to grow naturally should you enjoy the sprawl, but can also easily be pruned to a more manageable shape.

This unique growth pattern requires some forethought before planting, to ensure no other plants get crowded out. This tree flowers in the spring, sprouting among small pink and white blooms that resemble cherry blossoms amidst its leaves. The foliage is a true purple-red color – no green in sight. The bark even has such hues, making the whole bush harmonious in spring, summer and fall.

Landscape and Maintenance of Cistena Plum Trees

The Cistena Plum, while gorgeous, can be quite a handful. It is toxic to animals like cats, dogs and horses so take care when planting in an area frequented by your furry friends. It is also highly prone to diseases such as leaf spot, dieback, leaf curl, powdery mildew, root rot, honey fungus and fire blight.

The tree is prone to damage by many insects as well, such as spider mites, japanese beetles, leafhoppers, caterpillars and aphids. The wood may see damage from borers and trunk cankers caused by fungi or bacteria. Due to all its vulnerabilities, it only has a lifespan of around 10 years, but is sure to be a true beauty and wonderful addition to your garden for every one of them.

This Is How Your Plants Will Look upon Delivery

Bloom Season

Spring

Bloom/Foliage Color

Pink

Height at Maturity

Over 25 Feet

Care

Cistena Plum thrives in well-drained soil and prefers regular watering. Prune annually to maintain shape and remove any dead or diseased wood. Fertilize in early spring to support growth and flowering. Watch for pests and treat them promptly if needed.

Plant Reproduction

Cistena Plum spreads through suckers and seeds, forming dense clusters

How to Grow and Care for Bare Root Trees

Bare root trees are shipped dormant without soil, making them lightweight, cost-effective, and easy to plant during the cool months of early spring or fall. To begin, soak the roots in a bucket of water for 4–6 hours before planting to rehydrate them. Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil and ample space for the tree’s mature size.

Dig a hole twice as wide as the spread of the roots and deep enough to keep the root flare (where the roots begin to spread from the trunk) at or slightly above ground level. Create a small mound of soil in the center of the hole, spread the roots evenly over it, backfill with native soil, and gently tamp down to remove air pockets. Water thoroughly after planting.

Keep the soil consistently moist (not soggy) during the first growing season, and apply mulch around the base—avoiding direct contact with the trunk—to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Stake the tree if necessary, and prune only to remove dead or damaged branches. With proper care, your bare root tree will establish quickly and grow strong for years to come.

We carefully package every plant to retain superior moisture during transit. Once prepared, orders ship the same day through UPS or USPS, with typical delivery in 2–4 days.

Returns are not accepted, but plants are reshipped if extended warranty insurance was purchased at checkout. Otherwise, all plants include a standard 5-day warranty after delivery.