Damson 'Prune Damson’ Prunus insititia 'Prune Damson' (C)
ABOUT
Prunus insititia, also known as 'Prune Damson', is a deciduous tree or shrub that is known for its attractive appearance.
'Damson' can grow as a small tree or a large shrub, it can reach a height and width of 15 feet. It's a spreading tree with a dense and bushy crown, often multi-stemmed.
The leaves of 'Damson' are simple, oval-shaped, and glossy green in color. They are about 2-4 inches long and 1-2 inches wide. They are arranged alternately on the branches and have a serrated edge.
The tree produces small, white or pale pink flowers in clusters in early spring before the leaves appear.
The tree produces small, dark purple, round to oval-shaped fruit, which ripen in late summer or early fall. The fruit is typically 1 inch in diameter, with a juicy flesh and a single large pit (stone) in the center. The fruit is edible and can be eaten fresh or used to make jams, jellies, and other preserves. The fruit typically ripens in late summer or early fall. The fruit is high in vitamin C, vitamin K, and flavonoids which have antioxidant properties.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Rosaceae
Synonyms
Damson 'Prune Damson’, Damson plum
Common names
Prunus insititia 'Shropshire Damson', Prunus insititia 'Shropshire Prune', Prunus domestica 'Shropshire Prune', Prunus domestica 'Shropshire Damson'
ToxicityTo humans
Prunus insititia is not considered to be toxic to humans. The fruit is edible and can be eaten fresh or used to make jams, jellies, and other preserves.
However, it's worth noting that the leaves, bark, and pit (stone) of the fruit contain a compound called cyanogenic glycosides, which can release toxic hydrogen cyanide when chewed or digested. Therefore, it's important to remove the leaves, bark, and pit (stone) before consuming the fruit.To pets
Prunus insititia 'Prune Damson' is not considered to be toxic to animals.
The fruit is edible and can be eaten by animals. However, it's worth noting that the leaves, bark, and pit (stone) of the fruit contain a compound called cyanogenic glycosides, which can release toxic hydrogen cyanide when chewed or digested.
Therefore, it's important to remove the leaves, bark, and pit (stone) before giving the fruit to animals. In addition, consuming large amounts of the fruit or leaves may cause stomach upset, and it's best to avoid giving large amounts of Damson leaves or bark to animals.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White or pale pink
Height
Up to 15 feet
Spread
Up to 15 feet
Plant type
Tree
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Caucasus, Turkey, and Northern Iran
Benefits
General BenefitsThe fruit is edible and can be eaten fresh or used to make jams, jellies, and other preserves. It's high in vitamin C, vitamin K, and flavonoids which have antioxidant properties;
The tree produces small, white or pale pink flowers in clusters in early spring before the leaves appear, which add ornamental value to the garden;
The tree can provide food and shelter for wildlife such as birds and small mammals;
The tree can help to improve soil health by adding organic matter as leaves fall to the ground and decompose;
Trees absorb CO2 and store it as carbon in their biomass, thus reducing the amount of CO2 in the atmosphere and helping to mitigate the effects of climate change.
Medical PropertiesThe fruit is high in vitamin C and flavonoids, which have antioxidant properties that can help to protect the body against damage caused by free radicals and may have anti-inflammatory effects;
The fruit is high in vitamin K, which is essential for blood coagulation and maintaining healthy bones;
The fruit can help to promote healthy digestion and may alleviate constipation.
It's worth noting that these medical properties have not been extensively researched and it's best to consult with a healthcare professional before using Damson fruit for medicinal purposes.
Other UsesThe fruit can be used to create a dark purple dye that can be used to color fabrics, yarns, and other materials;
The fruit can be used to make a type of liquor called damson gin, which is made by infusing gin with damson plums. The fruit can also be fermented to make wine;
The fruit is commonly used in traditional British cuisine and can be used to make pies, jams, jellies, and other preserves;
The wood of the tree can be used for construction and as fuel for fires;
The tree produces flowers which attract pollinators like bees, butterflies, and other insects which are beneficial for the ecosystem.
Interesting Facts
Plant SymbolismIn some cultures, the tree is also believed to have spiritual properties, and can be used in rituals, or as a decorative element in garden.
Water'Damson' prefers consistently moist soil, but not waterlogged.
It's best to water the tree deeply and regularly, allowing the top inch or two of soil to dry out before watering again. A general rule of thumb is to provide the tree with about 1 inch of water per week.
This can be accomplished through irrigation or rainfall.
Light'Damson' prefers full sun to partial shade, it can tolerate a wide range of light conditions but it produces the most fruit when grown in full sun.
Temperature'Damson' is hardy in USDA zones 5 and higher.
It can survive temperatures as low as -15°F, which makes it suitable for most regions of the world.
PruningPruning is not necessary for Prunus insititia, but if you want to control the size or shape of the tree, it's best to prune in late winter or early spring before the buds begin to swell. Remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches. Prune out any branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other. Thin out any overly dense areas of the tree to improve light penetration and air circulation.
SoilPrunus insititia 'Prune Damson' prefers a soil with a slightly acidic pH of between 6.0 and 6.5.
It should be well-draining and rich in organic matter such as compost or aged manure. The soil should be kept moist but not soggy.
RepottingPrunus insititia 'Prune Damson' should be repotted every 2 to 3 years if it is grown in a container.
Humidity & MistingThe best humidity level for Prunus insititia 'Prune Damson' is 40-60% relative humidity. This is because this species of damson plum tree does best in moderate humidity levels and can tolerate a wide range of relative humidity levels.
When growing Prunus insititia 'Prune Damson' outdoors, it is important to provide adequate moisture for the tree. The tree should not be allowed to dry out, and the soil should be kept moist, but not soggy.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Prunus insititia 'Prune Damson' is a fruiting tree, usually grown outdoors in temperate climates. It is a deciduous tree, so it will lose its leaves in autumn and winter.
If you want to grow Prunus insititia 'Prune Damson' indoors, you will need to provide it with lots of sunlight and warmth. Place the tree in a bright, south-facing window and keep the temperature in the room at between 65 - 75°F.Outdoor
Prunus insititia 'Prune Damson' is an attractive deciduous tree that will grow best in a sunny, sheltered position in moist, well-drained soil. It is an ideal choice for a small garden as it will reach a maximum height of around 8m, making it a great option for a small space.
To ensure the best results when growing Prunus insititia 'Prune Damson' outdoors, it is important to ensure the soil is well-drained. If the soil is too wet, the tree’s roots can be prone to fungal diseases, so it’s best to avoid this. You can improve drainage by adding organic matter such as compost or manure to the soil.
It is also important to choose a sheltered spot to ensure Prunus insititia 'Prune Damson' is protected from strong winds. This will help the tree to establish itself and thrive.Hardiness zone
USDA 5 - 10
Life cyclePrunus insititia 'Prune Damson' is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Prunus genus. The tree is known for its small, dark purple fruits that are used to make jams and jellies. The tree goes through a typical life cycle, beginning with a dormant period in the winter, during which the tree sheds its leaves.
In spring, the tree begins to bud and new leaves begin to grow. The tree will also produce flowers during this time, which are usually white or pink in color. After pollination, the flowers will develop into fruits that are ready to be harvested in the late summer or early fall.
The leaves will turn yellow and fall off in autumn, signaling the end of the growing season for the tree. The tree will then enter into its dormant period once again and prepare for the next growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring - summer
By GRAFTING:
This is a common method used to propagate fruit trees, including Prunus insititia 'Prune Damson'. A small piece of a mature tree is grafted onto a rootstock of a different variety, which will produce a tree that is identical to the original tree.
By LAYERING:
This method involves bending a low-growing branch of the tree to the ground and covering it with soil. The branch will eventually root and can be cut from the parent tree to create a new one.
By SOFTWOOD CUTTINGS:
This method involves taking a cutting from a young, soft wood stem of the tree and rooting it in a mixture of sand and peat moss. Once the cutting has rooted, it can be transplanted into a pot or into the ground.
By HARDWOOD CUTTINGS:
This method involves taking a cutting from a mature, hardwood stem of the tree and rooting it in a mixture of sand and peat moss. Once the cutting has rooted, it can be transplanted into a pot or into the ground.
PestsAphid, Cherry fruit fly
DiseasesPowdery mildew, Canker, Plum leaf-fold, Black knot
