The Prunus mexicana, commonly known as the Mexican Plum, is a species of plum tree that can be found in the Midwestern and Southeastern United States, as well as Northern Mexico. Its native range stretches from South Dakota and Ohio in the north to as far south as Alabama and Coahuila. Mexican Plum is widely cultivated, such as on the west coast of the United States. It has a single trunk and reaches a height of 15–38 feet. The tree is characterized by its fragrant, showy, white flowers that bloom before the leaves appear. The leaves are ovate to narrower with serrate margins and can grow up to 5 inches long and 2 inches wide. The plums of Prunus mexicana turn from yellow to mauve to purple as they ripen from July through September. The fruit is enjoyed fresh and can be made into preserves. It is also consumed by birds and mammals. Prunus mexicana is very similar to Prunus americana and they intergrade along a broad contact zone centered around Arkansas and Missouri. This species has served as a stock for grafting cultivated varieties of plums. Mexican Plum is adaptable to a wide range of soil pH and is drought-tolerant. It can thrive in USDA zones 7 to 9. Overall, the Mexican Plum is a beautiful and versatile tree that adds beauty and potential fruit production to any landscape.
