Cherry Plum

About this plant

Standing out with its striking deep purple leaves that hold their color all season, Prunus Cerasifera 'Thundercloud' offers a captivating display even when not in bloom. In early spring, before the leaves fully emerge, the branches are adorned with a profusion of delicate pinkish-white flowers, creating a breathtaking contrast against the dark stems. These blooms eventually give way to small, dark red, edible plums, though they are usually sparse. This tree is an excellent specimen for adding a touch of drama and vibrant color to any landscape. Its moderate size makes it suitable for a variety of garden settings, from focal points in front yards to accent trees in larger designs. It performs beautifully as a standalone feature, in mixed borders, or even along property lines. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, 'Thundercloud' Cherry Plum is relatively low maintenance and tolerates a range of soil conditions once established. Its ability to thrive in urban environments further enhances its versatility, making it a popular choice for both residential and commercial landscapes seeking year-round visual interest.

Installation timing

When we're in season, outside of the winter months, our goal is to get your plants installed within about two weeks. That window gives us enough time to secure your plants from our supplier and find a spot on the schedule. Throughout the process we stay in touch through notifications and your existing client portal on the main A Cut Above website, which is separate from this landscaping plants shop.

Care & maintenance

Requires well-drained soil and prefers full sun for best foliage color and flowering. Prune in late winter or early spring to shape and remove any dead or diseased branches. Fertilize annually in spring with a balanced tree fertilizer.

Watering suggestions

Proper watering is the single most important factor in your plant's survival after installation. Newly installed plants have a limited root system and rely on you for consistent moisture while they establish.

• First 2 weeks: Water deeply every day (or every other day in cooler, wet weather), soaking the root ball and surrounding soil.
• Weeks 3–12: Water deeply 2–3 times per week, adjusting for rain, heat, and soil drainage.
• After establishment: Water deeply about once a week during the growing season, and more often in extreme heat or drought.
• How to check: Stick a finger 2–3 inches into the soil near the roots — if it's dry, it's time to water. Deep, less-frequent watering encourages strong roots; shallow daily sprinkles do not.
• Avoid: Overwatering (soggy, waterlogged soil) is just as harmful as underwatering and can drown roots.

Watering needs vary by plant, season, soil, and exposure. Because proper watering is the customer's responsibility after installation, please make sure you understand and can follow these suggestions before ordering.

Good to know: plants and trees purchased from and installed by A Cut Above include a one-year limited warranty from the date of installation. Because plant survival depends heavily on proper watering and care after installation, losses caused by improper care, neglect, animal or chemical damage, or extreme weather are not covered, and we must be given the chance to inspect a struggling plant before it's removed or replaced. Coverage is one replacement per plant. Read our warranty info.