About Prunus umbellata Elliott
Prunus umbellata Elliott, commonly known as flatwoods plum, hog plum, and sloe plum, is a species of plum native to the United States. Its native range extends from Virginia south to Florida, and west to Texas. Mature Prunus umbellata trees can reach 6.1 meters, or 20 feet, in height, with a spread of 4.6 meters, or 15 feet. This species produces alternate, serrate green leaves that turn yellow during autumn. Its flowers can be white, creamy, or grayish in color. The fruits are round, purple, and measure between 1.3 and 2.5 centimeters, or 1/2 to 1 inch, in diameter. Prunus umbellata blooms and bears fruit later than other plum species. Its fruits mature between August and October. Large fruit crops occur only once every 3 to 4 years. Individual P. umbellata trees can live up to 40 years. This species is very difficult to distinguish from Prunus angustifolia, and it hybridizes easily with P. angustifolia. The fruits of Prunus umbellata are used to make jellies and jams.
