California: Many counties in the Bay Area, some areas along the Central Coast and some other inland counties in the northern part of the state.

If you live in one of these areas, consider choosing a different tree for your garden: Other animals, such as rats, opposums, raccoons and foxes, do the same thing. Even if you are diligent about cleaning up the fruit, birds can spread them by carting away the fruit and then dropping the seeds. Prunus cerasifera can be quite invasive in specific areas of the country. If you're concerned about these issues, a good alternative is 'Forest Pansy', an Eastern redbud with deep purple foliage. Fruit drop can be a nuisance with the large amount of small fruit produced. These threats can also contribute to its relatively short life span of 20 years or less.

They are also susceptible to pests such as borers, aphids, scale, leafhoppers, caterpillars, tent caterpillars, Japanese beetles, and spider mites.

Purple-leaf plum trees are known to be susceptible to a large number of diseases including black knot, leaf spot, die back, leaf curl, powdery mildew, root rot and fireblight. Prune in mid-summer if silver leaf is a problem. Little pruning is needed other than to remove dead or diseased branches, and should be done after flowering. They are moderately drought-tolerant once established, but may need additional deep watering in summer heat. Purple-leaf plum trees need regular weekly watering.

Leaves will not reach their full, rich color potential in shade and will turn almost green. Exposure:įor best foliage color and blooming, purple-leaf plum trees should be grown in full sun to only partial shade. Generally, zones 4-9, with most varieties doing best in zones 5-8.

Plum trees with purple leaves