The “crazy plum” tree, often referring to ornamental varieties like Prunus cerasifera ‘Pissardii’, brings striking color and beauty to any garden space. These trees are highly sought after for their distinctive appearance and ability to enhance landscape aesthetics.
Understanding the Crazy Plum
The “crazy plum” typically identifies with Prunus cerasifera, commonly known as the cherry plum or purpleleaf plum, with ‘Pissardii’ being a widely recognized cultivar. This deciduous tree is prized for its dark purple foliage, which emerges in rich burgundy tones in spring and deepens throughout summer, creating a strong visual contrast. Before the leaves fully unfurl, the tree produces fragrant, pale pink to white blossoms in early spring.
The tree generally grows to a moderate size, reaching 15 to 25 feet tall and 15 to 25 feet wide with a rounded or spreading growth habit. After flowering, small, plum-like fruits may appear, which are typically ornamental and not palatable for human consumption, though birds often enjoy them. Prunus cerasifera ‘Pissardii’ is adaptable to USDA hardiness zones 4 through 9, tolerating both cold winters and hot summers when adequately watered.
Planting and Cultivation
Successful establishment of a “crazy plum” tree begins with selecting an optimal planting site. These trees flourish in full sun, requiring at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily to ensure their signature purple foliage maintains its vibrant color. Insufficient light can cause the leaves to revert to a greener shade. A well-draining location is paramount, as the tree does not tolerate consistently waterlogged soil, which can lead to root issues.
The ideal soil for a “crazy plum” is loamy with good drainage and a slightly acidic to neutral pH, typically ranging between 5.0 and 7.0. While they can tolerate some clay and sandy soils, incorporating organic matter, such as compost, significantly improves soil fertility and structure. The best time for planting is during the dormant season, either in early spring as the ground thaws or in the fall, allowing the tree to establish roots before extreme temperatures. When planting, dig a hole two to three times wider than the root ball and just as deep, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Backfill with soil, gently firming it to remove air pockets, and water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots.
Ongoing Care and Maintenance
Consistent watering is crucial, particularly during the first year after planting. Newly planted trees may need 5 to 10 gallons of water weekly, applied deeply to keep the root ball moist but not waterlogged. For established trees, about one inch of water every 7 to 10 days is generally sufficient, with increased frequency during dry spells. Deep watering encourages a robust root system, and watering in the early morning or late afternoon minimizes evaporation.
Fertilization supports healthy growth; apply an all-purpose, slow-release fertilizer annually in early spring as new growth emerges. For particularly fertile soil, fertilizing every two to three years may be adequate. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can stimulate excessive, weak growth and potentially diminish the intensity of the purple leaf color.
Pruning focuses on maintaining the tree’s shape and removing any dead, damaged or diseased branches. The best time for shaping or thinning cuts is immediately after flowering in spring, to avoid removing next season’s flower buds. Apply mulch around the base, keeping it a few inches away from the trunk, to retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weeds.
Common Issues and Solutions
Crazy plum trees can encounter specific pests and diseases. Aphids are a common pest that can infest these trees; a strong spray of water can often dislodge them, and insecticidal soap or horticultural oil can be used for more persistent infestations. Borers can also be a concern, and maintaining tree health through proper watering and fertilization helps prevent their establishment.
Several diseases can affect ornamental plums, including brown rot, which can cause flowers to turn brown and fruit to develop soft spots. Shothole disease, caused by a fungus, manifests as small purplish spots on leaves that expand into brown areas before the affected tissue drops out, leaving a “shot-hole” appearance. Cytospora canker is another fungal disease that affects bark and cambium, potentially leading to branch dieback. Proper air circulation through pruning and prompt removal of infected plant material are important preventative measures. Poor growth can often be linked to inadequate water, nutrient deficiencies, or compacted soil, all of which can be addressed through consistent care practices.