Moderate to high water needs in Phoenix. Water deeply throughout the root zone, allowing the upper few inches of soil to dry between irrigations. Increase frequency during extreme heat; reduce watering during winter dormancy.
Japanese plum producing aromatic, reddish-purple fruit with sweet-tart amber flesh, excellent fresh or preserved. This profile assumes ‘Santa Rosa’; Prunus salicina ‘Beauty’ is a different cultivar.
Pits, leaves and twigs contain cyanogenic compounds (toxic to pets and livestock); fruit edible
Care Instructions
Light: Full sun for best fruiting; in Phoenix, provide at least 6 hours of sun with protection from intense late-afternoon summer exposure.
Water: Moderate to high water needs in Phoenix. Water deeply throughout the root zone, allowing the upper few inches of soil to dry between irrigations. Increase frequency during extreme heat; reduce watering during winter dormancy.
Soil: Deep, well-drained loam preferred. Avoid waterlogged soil and heavily compacted sites. Apply organic mulch over the root zone, keeping it several inches away from the trunk.
Mature size: Typically 15–25 feet tall and wide on standard rootstock; smaller on dwarfing rootstock or with regular pruning.
Bloom: Late winter to early spring, depending on winter temperatures. Fruit generally ripens in late spring to early summer in warm climates.
Evergreen / deciduous: Deciduous.
Growth rate: Moderate to fast with adequate irrigation and suitable soil.