There are five species of wild plum in Alabama, varying in size, range, and quality of fruit. Ranging from low thicket forming shrubs to medium sized trees, wild plum offer excellent fruiting and flowering potential for many situations across the state. All of Alabama’s wild plums produce fruit that is excellent for wildlife and many species of pollinating insect visit the flowers.

Thicket Forming Plums

American wild plum (Prunus americana), hog plum (P. umbellata), and Chickasaw plum (P. angustifolia) are low growing, thicket forming species. Regular hybridization makes field identification difficult, but all share a number of similar traits. All three are generally less than 20 feet tall, and thrive in a range of habitats from rocky or sandy uplands to richer soils and bottomlands. The bark is generally tight and smooth on young stems but becomes craggy with age. The leaves are often small. The flowers are small, white, and appear early in the year—often before the foliage. The fruits range from yellow to red or deep purple at ripeness and are ready by mid to late summer. It should be noted that of these species the American wild plum can be maintained as a stand alone tree fairly easily.

Tree-forming Plums

Mexican plum (P. mexicana) and wild goose plum (P. munsoniana) are both larger species of wild plum, often growing to nearly 30 or 40 feet in height. The wild goose plum is uncommon in Alabama, found only in scattered sites in the northern part of the state, whereas Mexican plum is more widespread. Foliage and bark are similar to the other species, with Mexican plum having larger flowers.

Uses for People

The fruit of many species is edible both in-hand or cooked down into jams, jellies, and preserves. Individual quality may vary, with some trees having less palatable fruit. Well-maintained thickets can have good yields but determining ripeness requires practice and experience. Thicket forming species can be used as hedging, with early spring flowers providing visual interest. Tree form plums can be individual ornamentals or a great addition to a permaculture garden. Honeybees will utilize the flowers.

Uses for Wildlife

Many animals will consume the fruit and the wild plums are an excellent source of mid- to late-summer soft mast. The abundant spring flowers provide a nectar and pollen source for countless pollinators. Thicket-forming species provide nesting sites and cover for a wide range of small animals. Wild plums, like most members of the genus Prunus, are host plants for many butterflies, moths, and other insects.

Cultivation

Some species like Chickasaw and American wild plums may be readily available from native nurseries, with improved cultivars available. When planted on an appropriate site, most of these species should thrive without issue across much of the state. Prune the trees to a shorter height for better access and to maintain good growth form if fruit for human consumption is the primary goal. Prune in winter and follow Alabama Extension’s pruning guides for best practices. While plum species are hardy in general, they are subject to the same diseases as domestic plums and peaches and could transfer them to planted trees.

Most wild plums are drought tolerant and can grow in partial shade. However, better yields and faster growth will be achieved in full sun environments with regular access to water. Even drought tolerant species such as Chickasaw plum will require watering during the establishment phase.

Wild plums grow readily from seed. Planting the pits from local patches is a good way to further establish locally adapted plums. Planting only from the most palatable individuals may improve the overall quality for human consumption. If the qualities of a specific individual are desired, members of the genus Prunus graft comparatively easily.