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American Plum or Wild Plum (Prunus americana)

Habitat Management Suggestions for Selected Wildlife Species
 By R.J. Mackie, R.F. Batchelor, M.E. Majerus, J.P. Weigand, and V.P. Sundberg

Description:

A tall, deciduous, thorny shrub to small tree common in native thickets along stream bottoms and coulees in central and eastern Montana. The leaves are alternate with sharply serrate margins and prominent veins. The plants bloom with white flowers about mid-May, starting before leaves develop. The fruit is cherry-like or plum-shaped and red or yellow upon ripening late in the summer. On favorable soils with good moisture, the plants will grow to a height of 8 to 15 feet. They sucker freely, but, where necessary, can be kept under control with regular tillage or cutting.

Adaptation:

They grow best on deep, moist soils, but are adapted to a wide range of soils. Growth and fruit production on dry, upland sites, however, is disappointing.

Establishment

The planting stock should be one year of age and has not been transplanted, and it should be 12 to 14 inches in height. The plants should be spaced 8 to 10 feet apart to provide optimum density for wildlife. New plantings may require protection from browsing for two to three years with repellents or fencing.

Management and Care

Although certain diseases and insects can cause problems with the performance of this species, they are generally not serious. Plum pocket and black knot are two commonly known afflictions. This species does not require routine care.

Uses

Plums are highly important as wildlife cover and food. The thorny, suckering growth forms thickets valuable for birds to nest, loaf and roost; also animal hiding, protection, bedding and browsing. The fruit provides emergency food for several song- and game birds, but is not preferred by them. Twigs and foliage provide browse for whitetail and mule deer.

The fruit is widely used for making jams and jellies.

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Plums are highly important as wildlife cover and food.