Purple Leaf Plum Prunus cerasifera 'Gypsy' (F)
ABOUT
The Cherry Plum 'Gypsy' is a striking ornamental plant known for its beautiful foliage and flowers. It showcases leaves that are deep purple to reddish-bronze, which adds a rich color contrast to the garden landscape. Throughout the seasons, the leaves maintain their vibrant hue, making it a visually appealing focal point. In early to mid-spring, the plant is adorned with a profusion of stunning flowers. The blossoms are typically a soft pink hue, which stands out against the dark foliage, creating an eye-catching display. The flowers are small but plentiful, covering the branches in a dense floral canopy. After the flowering period, the plant may produce small fruits, which are usually more ornamental than edible. The overall appearance of the Cherry Plum 'Gypsy' is one of elegance and interest, bringing color and life to wherever it is planted.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Rosaceae.
Synonyms
Cherry Plum, Myrobalan Plum, Gypsy Plum.
Common names
Prunus cerasifera 'Gypsy'
ToxicityTo humans
The Prunus cerasifera, commonly known as the cherry plum or purple-leaf plum, has parts that are considered toxic to humans if ingested. The leaves, stems, and seeds contain cyanogenic glycosides, which can release cyanide when the plant material is damaged or consumed. Ingesting large quantities of these parts can lead to symptoms of cyanide poisoning, which include headache, dizziness, difficulty breathing, abdominal pain, vomiting, and potential loss of consciousness. If ingested, seek immediate medical attention due to the serious nature of cyanide poisoning.
To pets
The cherry plum or purple-leaf plum is also toxic to pets. Similar to humans, the leaves, stems, and seeds contain cyanogenic glycosides that can release cyanide when chewed or digested by pets. Symptoms of toxicity in pets include salivation, vomiting, difficulty breathing, seizures, and potentially coma. These signs can develop quickly and may be life-threatening. If you suspect your pet has ingested parts of this plant, contact a veterinarian immediately.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Purple
Flower color
Pink
Height
8-10 feet (2.4-3 meters)
Spread
6-8 feet (1.8-2.4 meters)
Plant type
Tree
Hardiness zones
5-9
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: The Prunus cerasifera 'Gypsy', commonly known as Cherry Plum or Myrobalan Plum, has striking purple foliage and beautiful pale pink to white blossoms that provide a spectacular display in the spring.
- Shade Provider: As a deciduous tree, it can offer shade during the hotter months while allowing sunlight through when it sheds its leaves in the fall and winter.
- Wildlife Habitat: The tree can provide food and shelter for birds, bees, and other wildlife, supporting local biodiversity.
- Edible Fruit: Produces small, edible plums that can be used in cooking or eaten fresh, offering a source of home-grown food.
- Erosion Control: Its root system helps stabilize the soil, thus preventing erosion in the landscape.
- Privacy Screen: Can be used as a natural screen, providing privacy for gardens and outdoor living spaces.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, Cherry Plum has a degree of drought tolerance, useful in areas with water restrictions or less rainfall.
- Urban Tolerant: The Cherry Plum is relatively tolerant of urban pollution and can thrive in city environments where other trees may struggle.
- Adaptable Growth: Generally adaptable to a range of soils, provided they are well-draining, making it suitable for various landscapes.
- Seasonal Interest: Offers year-round interest with its changing foliage, spring flowers, summer fruit, and striking winter branch structure.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- The Cherry Plum 'Gypsy' can be used in bonsai cultivation due to its aesthetically pleasing bark and the potential for beautiful blooms.
- Its branches and twigs can be used for decorative purposes in floral arrangements, especially when it has fruit or flowers.
- The dense foliage of the Cherry Plum 'Gypsy' offers privacy screening in gardens or when used as a hedge.
- Wood from the Cherry Plum 'Gypsy' can be used for crafting small woodworking projects or for ornamental turning.
- The fallen leaves of the Cherry Plum 'Gypsy' can be collected and used to create leaf mold, a beneficial soil conditioner.
- The tree's ability to grow in urban conditions makes it good for landscaping in streetscapes and public parks.
- Suitable for creating living fences or barriers, as it can be pruned and shaped extensively.
- The contrasting dark leaves provide a dramatic backdrop for garden photography and plant compositions.
- Its early blooming characteristic is used to signal the start of the growing season for gardeners and farmers.
- The shallow root system can help stabilize soil on slopes or control erosion on banks.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Cherry Plum is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Cherry Plum is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Renewal: Prunus cerasifera, commonly known as cherry plum, often blooms early in spring, symbolizing the concept of new beginnings and the renewal of life.
- Hope: The blossoming of the cherry plum tree serves as a reminder that after a cold, barren winter, spring brings hope and the promise of warmer days.
- Beauty: With its attractive flowers, the cherry plum represents beauty and the aesthetic pleasures of nature.
- Innocence: The delicate blossoms of the cherry plum can symbolize purity, innocence, and the simple joys of life.
- Resilience: As the cherry plum is one of the first trees to bloom in difficult conditions of late winter or early spring, it is often associated with the ability to endure and thrive in adversity.
- Transformation: The process of the cherry plum going from bare branches to a flurry of blossoms represents change and personal growth.
WaterThe Cherry Plum 'Gypsy', needs regular watering to maintain moist but not waterlogged soil. During the growing season, water the plant deeply once a week with about 1.5 to 2.5 gallons for young trees, and 3 to 5 gallons for established trees, ensuring that the water reaches the deep roots. Adjust the frequency to twice a week during hot, dry spells. In the dormant season, reduce watering but do not allow the soil to completely dry out. It's important to avoid overwatering which can lead to root rot.
LightThe Cherry Plum 'Gypsy' performs best in full sunlight, meaning at least six hours of direct, unfiltered light daily. Choose a spot in the garden that receives ample sunlight throughout the day. This ensures the plant maintains healthy growth and optimal fruit production. Partial shade is tolerated but may result in reduced flowering and fruiting.
TemperatureThe Cherry Plum 'Gypsy' can endure a wide range of temperatures but thrives at a moderate climate range. The ideal temperatures for this plant are between 35 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. It can survive minimum winter temperatures down to around -10 degrees Fahrenheit. Protect the plant from extreme cold or sudden frost to prevent damage to blossoms and fruit.
PruningPrune the Cherry Plum 'Gypsy' in late winter or early spring to remove dead or damaged branches, thin out crowded limbs, and shape the tree. This practice encourages healthy growth, better air circulation, and increases sun exposure to the interior of the canopy. Pruning at this time minimizes the risk of disease entering fresh cuts and allows the tree to heal before the growing season.
CleaningNot needed
SoilThe Cherry Plum 'Gypsy' prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. A mix of loam, sand, and organic compost is ideal to provide the necessary nutrients and drainage. Adjust the pH with sulfur or lime if needed.
RepottingCherry Plum 'Gypsy' trees, being large landscape trees, do not require repotting. They are typically planted in their permanent outdoor location and will not need to be repotted.
Humidity & MistingCherry Plum 'Gypsy' is adaptable to a wide range of humidity conditions and does well in the average outdoor humidity levels typically found in its growing regions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Not ideal for indoor growth due to size.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun with well-drained soil; water deeply.
Hardiness zone
5-8 USDA
Life cycleThe Prunus cerasifera 'Gypsy', commonly known as the Gypsy plum or cherry plum, starts its life as a dormant seed, which after stratification, germinates in early spring. It swiftly develops into a seedling, with its root system expanding and first leaves unfurling to begin photosynthesis. As a young tree, it enters a rapid vegetative growth phase, establishing more substantial roots and branching structure. Upon reaching maturity after several years, the Gypsy plum produces abundant, fragrant flowers in spring before leafing out, with successful pollination leading to the development of small plum fruits by late summer to fall. These fruits contain seeds that, once dispersed, can give rise to new plants, continuing the cycle. As a deciduous tree, it annually sheds its leaves in autumn and enters a period of dormancy during winter, reserving energy for the following spring's growth cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Prunus cerasifera 'Gypsy', commonly known as the Cherry Plum or Purple-leaf Plum, is most commonly propagated by hardwood cuttings. This method is typically carried out during the dormant season, which is late fall to winter. To propagate the Cherry Plum using this method, one would take a cutting of about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters) from a healthy, mature plant. The cutting should include at least two to three nodes, where leaves attach to the stem, as these areas contain the meristematic tissue necessary for new growth. The cut end of the cutting is often dipped in a rooting hormone to encourage root development before it is planted in a well-draining rooting medium. After planting the cutting, it is important to maintain consistent moisture and wait several weeks to months for the cutting to root before it can be transplanted to a more permanent location.
