Mount St. Helens Plum

Mount St. Helens Plum (Prunus cerasifera 'Frankthrees')

Mount St. Helens Plum is a compact purpleleaf plum valued for abundant pink spring blossoms and rich burgundy foliage that holds color through summer; its rounded, dwarf habit suits small gardens, foundations, and decorative containers.

Distinctive Features

Showy light pink flowers open on bare branches before leaf-out, then glossy purple leaves provide season-long contrast; small ornamental fruit may follow, attracting birds.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun for deepest foliage color; light shade reduces intensity.
• Soil: Well-drained loam or sandy soil; amend clay to improve drainage.
• Water: Even moisture during establishment; occasional deep soaks in prolonged drought.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5 to 9.
• Mature Size: Typically 8 to 10 ft tall and 6 to 8 ft wide.
• Bloom Time: Early spring on bare wood.
• Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, about 6.0 to 7.2.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Spring bloom and burgundy foliage create a vivid specimen near entries.
• Foundation Accent: Manageable size frames windows and patios.
• Small-Space Tree: Dwarf habit fits courtyards and narrow beds.
• Container Feature: Performs in large planters with good drainage.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water weekly the first season; afterward, deep water during hot, dry periods.
• Pruning: Prune lightly just after flowering to refine shape; remove dead or crossing wood and avoid heavy winter cuts.
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring if growth is weak.
• Mulching: 2 to 3 in organic mulch over the root zone, kept off the trunk, to conserve moisture.
• Notes: Site with good air flow to limit leaf spot; monitor for aphids and borers; best color in full sun.

Why Choose Mount St. Helens Plum?

• Dwarf Footprint: Big color and bloom in a compact tree.
• Season-Long Contrast: Burgundy foliage highlights greens and silvers.
• Spring Spectacle: Early pink blossoms brighten landscapes.
• Versatile Placement: Equally at home in beds, borders, or large containers.

Plant in full sun with well-drained soil and provide light post-bloom pruning for dependable color and tidy form.