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.