The cherry plum (Prunus cerasifera) is a unique and versatile fruit with a lot to offer. It’s different from the plums you might typically find at the grocery store. People grow cherry plums for their beauty as ornamental trees, their uses in the kitchen, and their potential health benefits.
This article will explore the characteristics of the cherry plum, how to cultivate it, and the many ways it can benefit you. We’ll also touch on its ecological importance, as cherry plum trees can attract a variety of wildlife.
You might also know cherry plums by another name: myrobalan plums.
What is a cherry plum, anyway?
Despite their name, cherry plums aren’t a hybrid of cherries and plums. Botanically speaking, they are a species of plum called Prunus cerasifera. Like other plums, they are a type of stone fruit.
So, what are the characteristics that make them cherry plums?
- They’re smaller than regular plums, only about an inch across.
- They have glossy red or golden skin.
Cherry plums also flower early in the season, sometimes as early as February. You can find them in farmer’s markets earlier in the summer than many other fruits.
Growing cherry plums
Cherry plum trees are pretty easy to grow in a variety of conditions. They don’t get very big — usually less than 8 meters tall, or about 26 feet.
Cherry plums are thought to have originated in Eastern Europe and Western Asia, but now you can find them all over the world. If you’re in the UK and want to grow your own, Keepers Nursery in Kent, England, is a good place to start.
Popular cherry plum varieties
A few cherry plum varieties you might like include:
- Ruby
- Gypsy
- Golden Sphere
These varieties offer different colors and flavors, so do a little research to find one that suits your taste!
What do cherry plums taste like, and how are they used in cooking?
Cherry plums have a sweet and tart taste. Some people find they taste similar to greengage plums, which are known for their sweetness and subtle tartness.
Like any fruit, the time of year when you pick cherry plums makes a big difference in their flavor.
These small, round plums are incredibly versatile in the kitchen. Here are some ways you can use them:
- Jams and preserves: Their flavor profile makes them ideal for turning into delicious jams and compotes.
- Baking: You can use cherry plums in pies, cobblers, and crumbles for a unique twist.
- Savory dishes: Don’t limit yourself to sweet dishes! Experiment with using cherry plums in savory recipes.
- Other uses: For a nutritional boost, add them to smoothies or fruit leather.
Health benefits of cherry plums
Like other types of plums, cherry plums are a good source of antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber. They contain potassium, vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and fiber.
Dietitian Rosy Saha says that 100 grams of plum fruit contains:
- Protein – 0.6 gm
- Fat – 0.5 gm
- Carb – 11.1 gm
- Calories – 52 calories
- Carotene – 166 micrograms
- Fiber – 2 gm
- Vitamin C – 5 mg
- Calcium – 10 mg
- Phosphorus – 12 mg
Specific Health Advantages
Like many fruits, cherry plums may provide specific health advantages:
- Heart health: Cherry plums contain phytochemicals that can lower inflammation in your body.
- Blood sugar regulation: Plums may regulate blood sugar by boosting adiponectin production and supplying high fiber.
- Digestive health: Cherry plums contain sorbitol, which works as a natural laxative.
- Immune support: Thanks to their vitamin C content, cherry plums may support your immune system and eye health.
Adding cherry plums to your diet is a simple way to get more fruits and vegetables into your day. Consider them for snacking, desserts, or even in salads.
Cherry plum: An ornamental asset and ecological contributor
Cherry plum trees are more than just a pretty face. They’re also beneficial to the environment and local wildlife.
Ornamental beauty
Cherry plum trees are known for their stunning spring blossoms. The pink flowers add a splash of color to any landscape, making them a visually appealing addition to gardens and parks.
Beyond the spring blooms, cherry plum trees offer year-round beauty with their vibrant autumn foliage.
Ecological benefits
Cherry plum trees play a vital role in supporting local ecosystems.
The blossoms attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, which are essential for plant reproduction and overall ecological health. As these pollinators collect nectar from the cherry plum flowers, they contribute to the pollination of other plants in the area.
Cherry plum trees provide food and shelter for various wildlife species. Birds, squirrels, and deer often rely on these trees for sustenance and protection, making them an important part of the food chain.
Cultural significance and traditional uses
Cultural Symbolism
The cherry plum has cultural and symbolic importance in Chinese and Japanese traditions. It’s seen as a beacon of hope.
In Japanese tradition, people often plant cherry plum trees in the northeast corner of their gardens.
Traditional Medicine
Traditional medicine practices suggest that cherry plum blossoms may have potential health benefits.
The blossoms also have a sweet, almond-like scent that may lift your mood and help you sleep better.
Buying and storing cherry plums
You might find cherry plums at your local farmer’s market or a specialty grocery store. You can also buy them online. Weee! is one online retailer that carries them.
Online, you might pay around $6.99 per pound. If you want to grow your own, you can buy cherry plum trees for around $35 or smaller plants for around $69.
To store cherry plums, leave them at room temperature until they ripen. Then, pop them in the fridge. You can also wash them, remove the pits, and freeze them to use later.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can humans eat cherry plums?
Yes, cherry plums are generally safe for human consumption when ripe. Like other stone fruits, unripe cherry plums can be quite tart, but ripe ones offer a pleasant sweet-tart flavor. As with any fruit, it’s essential to wash them thoroughly before eating to remove any dirt or potential contaminants. Avoid consuming the pits, as they contain compounds that can be harmful in large quantities.
What is the spiritual meaning of cherry plums?
The spiritual meaning of cherry plums can vary across cultures and belief systems. However, the blossoming of cherry plum trees, like other flowering trees, often symbolizes renewal, hope, and the fleeting nature of beauty. The fruit itself can represent abundance, fertility, and the sweetness of life. Some may also associate it with protection and good fortune.
What is a cherry plum good for?
Cherry plums are a good source of various nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They are particularly rich in vitamin C, which supports immune function, and fiber, which aids in digestion. The antioxidants in cherry plums may help protect against cellular damage. They’re also simply a delicious and healthy snack or ingredient for jams, preserves, and desserts.
Are cherry plums a laxative?
Cherry plums can have a mild laxative effect due to their fiber content. Fiber adds bulk to the stool and helps promote regular bowel movements. However, the laxative effect is generally not as strong as with some other fruits known for their high fiber content, such as prunes. If you’re experiencing constipation, incorporating cherry plums into a balanced diet along with plenty of water may help, but they shouldn’t be relied upon as a primary treatment.
To conclude
Cherry plums offer a wide range of benefits, from adding a tart-sweet flavor to your favorite recipes to providing a haven for pollinators and other wildlife.
These underappreciated fruits are easy to grow in many climates and soils. If you have a yard, consider planting a cherry plum tree. Even if you don’t have the space to grow your own, explore the culinary and health benefits of cherry plums.