WSU Clark County Extension
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Thundercloud Flowering Plum

Scientific name: Prunus cerasifera 'Thundercloud'
Taxonomy
Family:Rosaceae
Type:Deciduous tree
Native:NO
Plant Requirements
Zone:5 to 8
Plant Characteristics
Height:25 ft
Width:25 ft
Bloom:Spring flowers
Bloom Time:April
Bloom Color:Pink
Additional Characteristics
Trees


Fruit

Leaves


Bark
Wildlife value

Poisonous
Description `Thundercloud' flowering plum is grown for its red foliage which is borne on a fast growing and upright-spreading tree.

  Morphology:
This deciduous garden tree grows to height and width of 25’. It bears simple, 2”-4” long elliptically shaped leaves which are arranged alternately on the shoots. In the spring single pale pink to white flowers, which are fragrant, appear before the leaves emerge. All through the summer months the foliage retains its reddish coloration. In the Pacific Northwest this species typically does not bear fruit.

  Adaptation:
Widely adapted to most sites. Due to its low initial cost it is often over-used in new housing developments. In areas of limited space the dense purple foliage can over-power a small yard.

  Pests:
In the wetter regions of the Pacific Northwest the flowering plums are very susceptible to the fungal disease known as brown rot. The fungal spores from this disease initially infect the developing flowers in the spring which in turn spread the disease to the small twigs and branches. Over time the infection can result in thin looking branches and crowns. The best defense towards this disease is to initially plant this species on exposed sites with plenty of sun that can help dry out the foliage in the spring.
For assistance, contact Dr. Charles Brun (brunc@wsu.edu), (360) 397-6060 5701
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