Wild Plum; August Plum; Goose Plum (prunus americana)

Masses of fragrant white flowers appear on this small, somewhat thorny native fruit tree in spring before the leaves appear. Sends up suckers from the root system, and will eventually form a thicket if allowed to. The fruits, which begin ripening here around the start of September, are reddish in color, slightly oblong, about 1″ in diameter. The flesh of the fruits is pleasantly flavored. Wild plums are popular with some people for eating out of hand; they are also suited for use in baked goods and preserves. Bearing tends to be rather erratic, but in most years at least some fruit is produced, and sometimes there are bumper crops. The fruit has been pest-free in our plantings. The trees provide good cover for wildlife, and the fruit is of some food value to wild creatures. The habit varies from mostly small to medium sized trees to densely clustered shrubs.