Purple leaf sand cherry, also known as Prunus x cistena, is a popular ornamental tree that is widely grown for its striking foliage and stunning spring blossoms. This deciduous tree is a member of the Rosaceae family and is native to North America.
Background
The Purple Leaf Sand Cherry tree was developed in the 1940s as a cross between the Red Sand Cherry and the Purple Leaf Plum. It quickly became a favorite among gardeners and landscapers due to its stunning purple foliage that remains throughout the growing season. The tree typically grows to a height of 8-10 feet and has a spread of 6-8 feet, making it an excellent choice for small gardens and landscapes.
Features and Benefits
One of the key features of the Purple Leaf Sand Cherry is its attractive foliage. The tree has deep purple leaves that retain their color throughout the growing season, making it a stunning focal point in any garden. In the spring, the tree produces beautiful pink to white flowers that attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Another benefit of the Purple Leaf Sand Cherry is its hardiness. The tree is able to withstand a wide range of soil and climate conditions, making it an excellent choice for gardeners in different regions. It is also relatively low maintenance, requiring only occasional pruning to maintain its shape and size.
In addition to its ornamental value, the Purple Leaf Sand Cherry also provides other benefits. The tree produces small, edible fruit that can be used to make jams and jellies. The tree’s roots also help to prevent soil erosion, making it a good choice for gardeners who want to protect their soil and prevent runoff.
How to Plant and Care for a Purple Leaf Sand Cherry
When planting a Purple Leaf Sand Cherry, it is important to choose a site with well-draining soil and full sunlight. The tree can tolerate some shade but will produce more foliage and flowers in full sun.
The Purple Leaf Sand Cherry is a low maintenance tree that requires minimal care. It should be watered regularly during its first growing season to establish its root system, but thereafter, it can be watered as needed. The tree should also be fertilized once a year with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth.
Pruning is an important part of caring for a Purple Leaf Sand Cherry. The tree should be pruned in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or diseased branches and to maintain its shape and size. The tree can be pruned more heavily to control its size, but this should be done sparingly to avoid damaging the tree.
The Purple Leaf Sand Cherry is an excellent choice for gardeners and landscapers who want to add a stunning and hardy ornamental tree to their garden. With its attractive foliage, beautiful spring blossoms, and low maintenance requirements, the tree is a great addition to any landscape. By planting and caring for a Purple Leaf Sand Cherry, gardeners can enjoy its beauty and benefits for years to come.
Bolton Landscaping & Tree Service LLC 