Prunus cistena

Purpleleaf Cherry is a bushy and dense growing shrub. It usually reaches a height of 2 - 2.5 m and is approx. 2 - 2.5 m wide. It usually grows 10 - 15 cm per year.

High leaf ornamental value. The deciduous leaves of the Purpleleaf Cherry are dark red, ovate, glossy and alternate. They are about 3 - 6 cm in size.

Dark red, shiny bark makes this plant an eye-catcher in any garden.

The pink-coloured, cupped flowers appear in May. These grow to around 2 - 3 cm in size.

The dark red drupes ripen from July.

Prunus cistena is a deep-rooting plant.

Preferred location in a sunny to semi-shady position.

The Purpleleaf Cherry has good frost hardiness.

Normal soil.

Solitary, ornamental shrub, bee pasture, bird food plant

The plant has a medium water requirement.

- A slow-release fertiliser can be used in spring. This releases the nutrients slowly and continuously so that the plant is evenly supplied over a longer period of time.
- This plant does not tolerate heavy soil. If necessary, the soil structure can be improved when planting by working in sand and mature compost.

Container plants can be planted all year round, except when the soil is frozen and in summer heat (over 30°C).