American Plum

  • The American Plum is a species of Prunus native to North America.

  • The American plum grows as a large shrub or small tree, reaching up to 4.6 meters (15 feet).

  • It is adapted to coarse- and medium-textured soils, but not to fine soils (silt or clay).

  • The shrub survives harsh winters, down to temperatures of -40 degrees F; but has little tolerance for shade, drought, or fire.

  • Many birds and animals eat the fruit, and both white-tailed deer and mule deer feed on twigs and leaves.

  • The Plains Indians and Cheyenne ate the plums; the latter used the branches for the Sun Dance. The Navajo used the roots to make a red dye.