Prunus umbellata aka Sloe Plum

Prunus umbellata is a small tree or shrub in the rose family. Its common names include flatwoods plum, hog plum, and black sloe. Its native range runs from the eastern United States to Texas. It grows in dry upland woods with sandy or rocky ground. It loses its leaves each year. Plants can live for up to 40 years.

This plum can reach 20 feet [6.1 metres] in height. Its spread often matches its height. Several stems may grow from the same plant. Short, thick trunks support a dense crown with a flat top. Roots send up suckers that can grow into thickets. Young bark is smooth and reddish brown, with horizontal lenticels. Older bark develops shallow furrows. The slender twigs also have a reddish-brown shade. New shoots may have fine hairs, and branches may bear thorns. The buds are reddish and end in sharp points.

The simple leaves grow in an alternate pattern along the stems. They are oval to egg-shaped, with fine teeth along their edges. Their upper surface is green, while the underside is slightly paler. Some leaves have fine hairs along the lower midrib. White or cream flowers form rounded clusters called umbels. They bloom in March and April and attract native bees. The flowers give this small tree a spring display. Black fruits follow in August and September. Each fruit is a drupe less than an inch wide. People use the plums to make jam and jelly.

This species grows at a moderate rate. It grows in dappled light, partial shade, or deep shade. It accepts clay, loam, and sand where water drains well. Suitable soil can be acidic or alkaline. It grows in moist soil and ground that dries at times. Its drought tolerance is moderate rather than complete. Plants in sandy ground need extra water and more shade. Root suckers can make the plant spread beyond one trunk. Unchecked growth can turn a single planting into a thicket.

Flatwoods plum suits native gardens, meadows, and gardens for pollinators. It can serve as a small flowering tree or an accent. Eastern tiger swallowtail caterpillars use it as a host plant. It also attracts songbirds, butterflies, and small mammals. The edible fruit does not make every part safe. NC State flags this species as a problem for pets. It lists cats, dogs, and horses among the affected animals.