Cherry-Plums
Cherry-plums resulted from crosses made in the early 1900s between Prunus besseyi (sand cherry) and various plums. Plant breeders wanted to produce a fruit hardy enough to withstand the severe winters of the northern Great Plains. Even if you can't grow plums or cherries due to late frosts or extreme winters, you may be able to grow cherry-plums. They grow as small trees; about 6-8 feet high at maturity, and are hardier and more resistant to drought and late Spring frosts than any of the plums or cherries we sell. Cherry-plums yield a small, plum-like fruit that is wonderful for fresh eating. Their lifespan is 10-15 years. Cross-pollination is needed, so plant more than one variety. They may also be pollinated by Native American Plum seedlings, or any of the A group grafted plums. Cherry-plums should be spaced 4-8 feet.
