Prunus domestica aka Plum

Taxonomy

Genus Prunus Family Rosaceae Order Rosales Class Magnoliopsida Phylum Tracheophyta
Prunus domestica, also known as the Common Plum, is a species of flowering plant in the Rosaceae family. This deciduous tree encompasses various varieties of plums, although not all plums belong to this particular species. Subspecies such as greengages and damsons are also classified under Prunus domestica. It is believed to have evolved from a hybrid parentage of Prunus spinosa and P. cerasifera, with recent evidence suggesting that the cultivated 6× P. domestica may have solely originated from wild stocks of 2×, 4×, 6× P. cerasifera. This self-fertile plum resembles a damson and serves as a dual-purpose fruit. While it can be consumed fresh, it is commonly used for baking and culinary purposes. The tree produces white flowers that give way to oval, dark blue fruits with a pale blue bloom. These plums have yellow flesh with a high sugar content and a distinct "spicy" flavor. Due to the susceptibility of its blossoms to weather damage, it thrives best in a sheltered location. The cropping season for this plum is September, and it belongs to pollination group 4. The Common Plum is a relatively rare houseplant that presents an enjoyable challenge to grow. It requires regular watering to thrive and flourishes in long-lasting, direct light, preferably positioned less than 1 foot away from a window. This plant prefers soil that retains moisture well, and regular repotting is recommended whenever it doubles in size. Native to Turkey, the Common Plum belongs to the Prunus genus.

Common names

Plum, European Plum, Wild Plum

How to care for Plum

Water

Plum should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

When growing Plum, it is important to pay attention to the soil type you are using. This plant is very sensitive to dry soil and needs a potting soil that retains moisture. A good soil should still be well-draining and contain lots of organic matter. Coco coir or sphagnum moss are great options to provide the Wild Plum with the nutrients and moisture it needs. The added organic matter will also help the soil retain water and prevent the Plum from drying out too quickly. Before planting, make sure to mix compost or manure into the soil for extra nutrients. Also, make sure to water the European Plum regularly, making sure to keep the soil evenly moist but never soggy. With the correct soil and watering regimen, the Plum will thrive and bring lots of beauty to your home.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Plum prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Toxicity

Plum is poisonous if ingested. We suggest keeping this plant out of reach if you have children, cats, or dogs in the home.

Fertilizer

The Plum is characterized by its slow growth and doesn't need fertilization in addition to its potting soil. By renewing the soil in its pot once a year, it should have enough nutrition. Remember, plants get their energy from sunlight, not from any fertilizers.

Region of origin

Plum’s native range is Europe to W. Asia. Naturalized in Britain. A hybrid P. spinosa x P. cerasifera divaricata.

More info:
Wikipedia

More Species in Prunus Genus

Prunus Almond, Cherry, Plum

Prunus nigra Canada Plum

Prunus padus Bird Cherry

Prunus bifrons

Prunus yedoensis Yoshino Cherry

Prunus fasciculata Desert Almond

Prunus mahaleb Mahaleb Cherry

Prunus andersonii Desert Peach

Prunus lyonii Hollyleaf Cherry

Prunus americana American Plum