European Plum Prunus domestica 'Mallard' (D)

Names

• Family

  Rosaceae

• Synonyms

  European Plum, Common Plum, Domestic Plum

• Common names

  Prunus domestica 'Mallard'

Toxicity

• To humans

  Plum trees, which Prunus domestica 'Mallard' is a cultivar, are not typically toxic to humans when it comes to the fruit itself. However, the leaves, seeds (pits), and stems can be harmful if ingested. They contain cyanogenic glycosides which can release cyanide when the plant material is damaged or digested. Symptoms of poisoning from consuming these parts of the plant can include headache, dizziness, difficulty breathing, and nausea, which can potentially lead to more severe outcomes such as coma or death in extreme cases of cyanide poisoning.

• To pets

  Plum trees can be toxic to pets, including dogs and cats, if they consume the leaves, stems, or pits. These parts of the plant contain cyanogenic glycosides, which can release cyanide when chewed or digested. If a pet ingests these parts, they could display symptoms of cyanide poisoning, including panting, dilated pupils, difficulty breathing, and shock. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to coma or death, so it is important to prevent pets from accessing these parts of plum trees.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  White

• Height

  15-20 feet (4.6-6.1 meters)

• Spread

  15-20 feet (4.6-6.1 meters)

• Plant type

  Tree

• Hardiness zones

  5

• Native area

  Europe

General Benefits

• Nutritional Value: Prunus domestica 'Mallard', commonly known as Plum, offers fruits that are a good source of vitamins, minerals, dietary fiber, and antioxidants.
• Culinary Uses: Plums can be eaten fresh, used in cooking and baking, or processed into jams, jellies, and juices, providing versatility in the kitchen.
• Aesthetic Appeal: With beautiful spring flowers and a pleasing tree shape, the Plum tree can enhance the visual appeal of gardens and landscapes.
• Pollinator Attraction: Plum flowers attract bees and other pollinators, supporting biodiversity and the health of the local ecosystem.
• Shade and Shelter: As a medium-sized tree, the Plum provides shade and shelter in gardens and outdoor spaces, improving the microclimate.
• Wildlife Support: The fruit of the Plum tree offers a food source for birds and other wildlife, integrating well with natural surroundings.
• Economic Value: Plum cultivation can be economically beneficial for fruit production, contributing to local and commercial agriculture.
• Erosion Control: The root system of the Plum tree can help stabilize the soil, reducing erosion in certain landscapes.
• Craft and Woodworking: Plum wood can be utilized in cabinetry and for crafting purposes, well-regarded for its woodworking qualities.
• Recreational Opportunities: Plums can offer recreational activities such as fruit picking and gardening, encouraging outdoor engagement and education.

Medical Properties

• Antioxidant content: Prunus domestica 'Mallard' contains various antioxidants, which may help in reducing oxidative stress and protecting against some chronic diseases.
• Fiber source: This variety of plum can aid digestion and bowel regularity due to its dietary fiber content.
• Vitamin supply: Providing vitamins such as vitamin A and vitamin C, which are important for immune function and eye health.
• Mineral content: The plums are a source of important minerals like potassium, which can help maintain cardiovascular health.
• Blood sugar regulation: The fruit may have effects on blood sugar levels due to its fiber and sorbitol content, though this is not a clinically proven treatment.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Woodworking: The wood of the plum tree is valued for its density and may be used for making small, fine objects such as inlays and decorative items.
• Ink Production: The dark juice of plum fruits can be used to create a natural dye or ink for art or fabric coloring.
• Floral Arrangements: Branches of plum trees with blossoms are often used in floral arrangements for their aesthetic appeal.
• Culinary Garnish: Blossoms of the plum tree can be used as an edible garnish to add a touch of elegance to dishes and desserts.
• Homemade Cosmetics: Plum oil, extracted from the kernels, is sometimes used in homemade creams and balms for its hydrating properties.
• Animal Feed: Fallen or excess fruits can serve as a food source for livestock, particularly pigs.
• Plum Pit Carvings: The hard pits of plums can be carved into beads, pendants, or small trinkets.
• Fruit Leather: The flesh of plums can be dried and made into fruit leather, a chewy, sweet snack.
• Biofuel Production: The biomass from plum trees, such as excess wood, can be used in biofuel production.
• Photography: Plum blossoms are often subjects of photography and painting due to their striking appearance, especially in spring.

Feng Shui

The European plum is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The European plum is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Abundance: The Prunus domestica, commonly known as plum tree, bears fruits that are often associated with abundance and bounty due to their plentiful and luscious crops.
• Renewal: As a deciduous tree, the plum tree represents renewal and the cycle of life with its annual shedding of leaves and the subsequent emergence of new growth each spring.
• Inner richness: Plums have a hidden sweetness inside, which can symbolize hidden treasures and inner richness in a person's character or life.
• Endurance: Plum trees are known for their resilience and their ability to thrive in various conditions, thus symbolizing the human qualities of endurance and adaptability.
• Transformation: The blooming of a plum tree represents transformation as it transitions from a bare tree in the winter to a bountiful, flower-filled one in the spring.