Plum Tree For Sale
Regular price
$495.00
Variety
Size
Fresh, Juicy Plums from Your Own Backyard in Just 3–5 Years
Growing your own plum trees means harvesting sweet and juicy fruit that tastes nothing like what you find on grocery store shelves. Plum trees typically bear fruit 3 to 5 years after planting, and once they hit their stride, a single mature tree can deliver up to 2–3 bushels of delicious fruit every season. Whether you're craving reddish purple plums straight off the branch, planning a batch of homemade preserves, or simply want beautiful blossoms lighting up your yard each spring, a well-chosen plum tree is one of the most rewarding fruit trees you can plant.
Why You'll Love Our Plum Trees
-
Abundant Harvests – A mature, well-maintained tree produces up to 2 bushels of flavorful fruit per year. With the right care, you'll have more juicy plums than you know what to do with - perfect for fresh eating, drying, baking, and sharing with neighbors.
-
Year-Round Beauty – Plum trees offer stunning white flowers in spring, lush green foliage through summer, and dramatic fruit displays into early fall. They're a true edible landscape centerpiece that rivals any flowering tree for ornamental beauty.
-
Versatile Fruit – From sweet fruit eaten straight off the tree to dried plums, jams, and pies, plums are among the most versatile stone fruits you can grow. European plums are known for their sweet, firm fruit ideal for preserves, while Japanese plums deliver softer, juicier flesh for eating fresh.
-
Cold Hardy Varieties – We carry selections suited to California's diverse climate zones, from low-chill Japanese varieties for Southern California to cold hardy European types that thrive in Northern California's cooler elevations and even cold climates at higher altitudes.
-
Long-Term Investment – With proper care, plum trees remain productive for 15–30 years. That's decades of rich flavor from a single planting.
What Makes Our Plum Trees Different
Most nurseries stock a handful of generic varieties with little guidance on whether they'll actually produce fruit in your specific location. You pick a tree, take it home, and hope for the best.
Our plum trees are selected and sold differently:
-
Climate-Matched Selection – There are over 100 species of plums worldwide, and choosing the wrong one for your zone is the most common reason trees fail to bear fruit. We match every variety to California's specific chill hour requirements and growing conditions so your tree thrives from day one.
-
Expert Pollination Planning – Self-pollination varies among plum varieties; some require a compatible partner. Many European plums are self-pollinating, like Italian Prune, but most Japanese plums require cross-pollination with compatible varieties. We help you select the right pairing - or identify self fertile options if you only have room for one tree.
-
Professional Consultation Available – Our specialists walk you through variety selection, planting placement, soil requirements, and ongoing care. No guesswork, no wasted seasons.
-
Premium Root Systems – We ship healthy, vigorous bare root and container-grown trees with robust root systems that establish quickly. Bare-root plum trees establish better than container-grown trees, and mail order trees are shipped dormant in early spring for optimal transplant success.
How To Grow Plum Trees Successfully
-
Year 1: Plant and Establish Plant plum trees in early spring after frost has thawed. Choose a spot with full sun - plum trees require full sun with ideally 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Prepare your site with well draining soil, and position your root ball at the proper depth. Avoid planting plum trees in low-lying areas prone to frost damage.
-
Years 2–3: Growth and Training Annual pruning is necessary for healthy growth and fruit development. Prune plum trees to an open center form for better growth, removing water sprouts and crossing branches to promote airflow and light penetration. Fertilize young plum trees with 10-10-10 in mid-April, and support young trees with consistent deep watering during the growing season.
-
Years 3–5: First Harvest Fruit production begins - small at first, then increasing each year. Thinning young fruit helps increase size and sweetness of remaining plums. You'll start enjoying your first sweet fruit during this phase, especially if you planted dwarf varieties on precocious rootstocks like Krymsk 1.
-
Years 5+: Full Production Mature trees hit their stride, delivering a huge crop annually. With continued pruning, pest management, and proper irrigation, your tree will produce fruit reliably for decades.
Plum Tree Varieties and Details
Plum trees are broadly categorized into European, Japanese, and American types, and each group brings distinct advantages to your garden.
European Plum Trees (Prunus domestica) European plums bloom later than Japanese varieties, offering better frost resistance - a real advantage in Northern California and higher-elevation gardens. Top picks include:
-
Italian Prune – The classic prune plum tree with firm, sweet fruit perfect for drying. Self-pollinating and reliable. Higher chill requirement (700–800 hours).
-
Green Gage – Prized for centuries for its exceptional sweet flavor and greenish yellow flesh. A true heirloom variety.
-
Stanley – Another excellent prune plum, self fertile and productive. Great for preserves and eating fresh.
-
Damson Plum – Smaller, tart fruit traditionally used for jams and liqueurs. Extremely cold hardy.
Japanese Plum Trees Japanese plums bloom earlier and are often softer than European plums, with larger, rounder, incredibly juicy fruit. Best plum trees for Southern and Central California include:
-
Santa Rosa Plum Tree – California's signature variety, needing only 300–400 chill hours. Partially self fertile but yields increase significantly with a pollination partner. Large fruit with amber flesh and rich flavor ripens in July.
-
Beauty – A low-chill champion (approximately 200 hours), ideal for warm Southern California zones. Early ripening produces juicy fruit by early summer.
-
Burbank – Burbank plums are known for their juicy, sweet fruit. Burbank and Burgundy plums need cross-pollination for better fruit set.
-
Methley – Partially self-pollinating with sweet, reddish purple plums. A great choice if you want only one tree.
-
Shiro – Beautiful yellow flesh with mild, sweet flavor.
American Plum (Prunus americana) and Hybrids Native American plums are smaller and more disease-resistant, making them excellent for hedgerows and wildlife plantings. Many native plum trees are self-pollinating. The american plum and beach plum varieties add diversity - though beach plums require cross-pollination to bear fruit. Hybrid plums combine traits from different plum species, often delivering improved disease resistance with excellent eating quality.
Tree Sizes Plum trees are typically sold as standards or semi-dwarfs. Rootstock determines mature size:
-
Standard: 15–25 ft tall, 15–22 ft spacing. Maximum yield potential.
-
Semi-Dwarf: 8–12 ft, moderate spacing. A great balance of fruit production and manageable size.
-
Dwarf (Krymsk 1 rootstock): 6–10 ft. Small trees perfect for a small garden, patios, or containers. May produce fruit as early as year 2–3.
Trees should be spaced 12 to 18 feet apart for adequate air circulation. Plant two different Japanese plum varieties within 100 yards for pollination if growing varieties that require cross pollination.
Harvest Timing: July through September depending on variety - Japanese plums ripen from July through mid-August; european varieties extend the season into September and early fall.
Soil Testing Available: Plum trees thrive in well-draining, loamy soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. We offer professional soil analysis to ensure optimal growing conditions before you plant.
Who Our Plum Trees Are Perfect For
-
California Homeowners looking to add productive fruit trees to their landscape alongside other edible favorites like apricot or guava trees.
-
Beginning Fruit Gardeners wanting reliable, forgiving trees - especially self pollinating european varieties that produce fruit without a partner.
-
Cooking Enthusiasts who want fresh ingredients for preserves, baking, and dried plums. Italian plum and damson plum varieties are purpose-built for the kitchen.
-
Landscape Designers seeking dual-purpose trees that deliver both ornamental beauty and edible fruit. Plum trees belong to the rose family within the genus Prunus, and their spring display rivals dedicated ornamentals.
-
Anyone wanting fresh, organic fruit without grocery store dependence - plums grow beautifully under organic management when varieties are properly matched to your conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need more than one plum tree to get fruit? It depends on the variety. Many European plums are self-pollinating - Italian Prune and Stanley can produce fruit with only one tree. Most Japanese plums require cross-pollination with a compatible variety. The Santa Rosa plum tree is partially self fertile but sets a much larger crop with a pollinator nearby. Our consultation service helps you determine whether you need a second tree and which pairing works best.
When will my plum tree start producing fruit? Plum trees typically bear fruit 3 to 5 years after planting. Dwarf varieties on precocious rootstocks like Krymsk 1 sometimes fruit as early as year 2–3, though yields increase substantially with maturity. Plum trees benefit from deep watering rather than frequent shallow watering during establishment for fastest results.
How much space do I need? Standard trees need 15–20 feet of spacing. Semi dwarf varieties require somewhat less, and dwarf trees can be planted 8–10 feet apart - or even grown in large containers for a small garden or patio. Fertilization with balanced fruit tree fertilizer is recommended in early spring to support healthy growth regardless of size.
What if my soil isn't ideal? We offer professional soil testing and amendment recommendations. Plum trees need full sun and well-drained soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. Most California soils can be improved with proper amendments - and knowing your baseline before planting saves years of frustration.
Can you help me choose the right variety? Absolutely. Buy plum trees from a specialist who understands your climate. Our consultation service includes personalized variety recommendations based on your location, available space, chill hours, soil conditions, and whether you want juicy plums for fresh eating, firm fruit for drying, or both.
When should I plant? Plant plum trees in early spring after frost. Bare root trees shipped dormant establish most successfully during this window. Buy plum trees at specialist fruit tree nurseries like ours, and purchase seeds for wild plum trees from specialist growers if you're interested in native plums or hedgerow plantings.
Ready to Enjoy Home-Grown Plums?
Stop buying expensive, flavorless fruit that was picked weeks before it reached your kitchen. California produces over 90% of the nation's fresh plum crop with more than 200 varieties cultivated - and the best plum trees from that incredible diversity can be growing in your yard this season.
Choose your Premium Plum Trees and start harvesting sweet, juicy plums within just a few years.
Fresh, Juicy Plums from Your Own Backyard in Just 3–5 Years
Growing your own plum trees means harvesting sweet and juicy fruit that tastes nothing like what you find on grocery store shelves. Plum trees typically bear fruit 3 to 5 years after planting, and once they hit their stride, a single mature tree can deliver up to 2–3 bushels of delicious fruit every season. Whether you're craving reddish purple plums straight off the branch, planning a batch of homemade preserves, or simply want beautiful blossoms lighting up your yard each spring, a well-chosen plum tree is one of the most rewarding fruit trees you can plant.
Why You'll Love Our Plum Trees
-
Abundant Harvests – A mature, well-maintained tree produces up to 2 bushels of flavorful fruit per year. With the right care, you'll have more juicy plums than you know what to do with - perfect for fresh eating, drying, baking, and sharing with neighbors.
-
Year-Round Beauty – Plum trees offer stunning white flowers in spring, lush green foliage through summer, and dramatic fruit displays into early fall. They're a true edible landscape centerpiece that rivals any flowering tree for ornamental beauty.
-
Versatile Fruit – From sweet fruit eaten straight off the tree to dried plums, jams, and pies, plums are among the most versatile stone fruits you can grow. European plums are known for their sweet, firm fruit ideal for preserves, while Japanese plums deliver softer, juicier flesh for eating fresh.
-
Cold Hardy Varieties – We carry selections suited to California's diverse climate zones, from low-chill Japanese varieties for Southern California to cold hardy European types that thrive in Northern California's cooler elevations and even cold climates at higher altitudes.
-
Long-Term Investment – With proper care, plum trees remain productive for 15–30 years. That's decades of rich flavor from a single planting.
What Makes Our Plum Trees Different
Most nurseries stock a handful of generic varieties with little guidance on whether they'll actually produce fruit in your specific location. You pick a tree, take it home, and hope for the best.
Our plum trees are selected and sold differently:
-
Climate-Matched Selection – There are over 100 species of plums worldwide, and choosing the wrong one for your zone is the most common reason trees fail to bear fruit. We match every variety to California's specific chill hour requirements and growing conditions so your tree thrives from day one.
-
Expert Pollination Planning – Self-pollination varies among plum varieties; some require a compatible partner. Many European plums are self-pollinating, like Italian Prune, but most Japanese plums require cross-pollination with compatible varieties. We help you select the right pairing - or identify self fertile options if you only have room for one tree.
-
Professional Consultation Available – Our specialists walk you through variety selection, planting placement, soil requirements, and ongoing care. No guesswork, no wasted seasons.
-
Premium Root Systems – We ship healthy, vigorous bare root and container-grown trees with robust root systems that establish quickly. Bare-root plum trees establish better than container-grown trees, and mail order trees are shipped dormant in early spring for optimal transplant success.
How To Grow Plum Trees Successfully
-
Year 1: Plant and Establish Plant plum trees in early spring after frost has thawed. Choose a spot with full sun - plum trees require full sun with ideally 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Prepare your site with well draining soil, and position your root ball at the proper depth. Avoid planting plum trees in low-lying areas prone to frost damage.
-
Years 2–3: Growth and Training Annual pruning is necessary for healthy growth and fruit development. Prune plum trees to an open center form for better growth, removing water sprouts and crossing branches to promote airflow and light penetration. Fertilize young plum trees with 10-10-10 in mid-April, and support young trees with consistent deep watering during the growing season.
-
Years 3–5: First Harvest Fruit production begins - small at first, then increasing each year. Thinning young fruit helps increase size and sweetness of remaining plums. You'll start enjoying your first sweet fruit during this phase, especially if you planted dwarf varieties on precocious rootstocks like Krymsk 1.
-
Years 5+: Full Production Mature trees hit their stride, delivering a huge crop annually. With continued pruning, pest management, and proper irrigation, your tree will produce fruit reliably for decades.
Plum Tree Varieties and Details
Plum trees are broadly categorized into European, Japanese, and American types, and each group brings distinct advantages to your garden.
European Plum Trees (Prunus domestica) European plums bloom later than Japanese varieties, offering better frost resistance - a real advantage in Northern California and higher-elevation gardens. Top picks include:
-
Italian Prune – The classic prune plum tree with firm, sweet fruit perfect for drying. Self-pollinating and reliable. Higher chill requirement (700–800 hours).
-
Green Gage – Prized for centuries for its exceptional sweet flavor and greenish yellow flesh. A true heirloom variety.
-
Stanley – Another excellent prune plum, self fertile and productive. Great for preserves and eating fresh.
-
Damson Plum – Smaller, tart fruit traditionally used for jams and liqueurs. Extremely cold hardy.
Japanese Plum Trees Japanese plums bloom earlier and are often softer than European plums, with larger, rounder, incredibly juicy fruit. Best plum trees for Southern and Central California include:
-
Santa Rosa Plum Tree – California's signature variety, needing only 300–400 chill hours. Partially self fertile but yields increase significantly with a pollination partner. Large fruit with amber flesh and rich flavor ripens in July.
-
Beauty – A low-chill champion (approximately 200 hours), ideal for warm Southern California zones. Early ripening produces juicy fruit by early summer.
-
Burbank – Burbank plums are known for their juicy, sweet fruit. Burbank and Burgundy plums need cross-pollination for better fruit set.
-
Methley – Partially self-pollinating with sweet, reddish purple plums. A great choice if you want only one tree.
-
Shiro – Beautiful yellow flesh with mild, sweet flavor.
American Plum (Prunus americana) and Hybrids Native American plums are smaller and more disease-resistant, making them excellent for hedgerows and wildlife plantings. Many native plum trees are self-pollinating. The american plum and beach plum varieties add diversity - though beach plums require cross-pollination to bear fruit. Hybrid plums combine traits from different plum species, often delivering improved disease resistance with excellent eating quality.
Tree Sizes Plum trees are typically sold as standards or semi-dwarfs. Rootstock determines mature size:
-
Standard: 15–25 ft tall, 15–22 ft spacing. Maximum yield potential.
-
Semi-Dwarf: 8–12 ft, moderate spacing. A great balance of fruit production and manageable size.
-
Dwarf (Krymsk 1 rootstock): 6–10 ft. Small trees perfect for a small garden, patios, or containers. May produce fruit as early as year 2–3.
Trees should be spaced 12 to 18 feet apart for adequate air circulation. Plant two different Japanese plum varieties within 100 yards for pollination if growing varieties that require cross pollination.
Harvest Timing: July through September depending on variety - Japanese plums ripen from July through mid-August; european varieties extend the season into September and early fall.
Soil Testing Available: Plum trees thrive in well-draining, loamy soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. We offer professional soil analysis to ensure optimal growing conditions before you plant.
Who Our Plum Trees Are Perfect For
-
California Homeowners looking to add productive fruit trees to their landscape alongside other edible favorites like apricot or guava trees.
-
Beginning Fruit Gardeners wanting reliable, forgiving trees - especially self pollinating european varieties that produce fruit without a partner.
-
Cooking Enthusiasts who want fresh ingredients for preserves, baking, and dried plums. Italian plum and damson plum varieties are purpose-built for the kitchen.
-
Landscape Designers seeking dual-purpose trees that deliver both ornamental beauty and edible fruit. Plum trees belong to the rose family within the genus Prunus, and their spring display rivals dedicated ornamentals.
-
Anyone wanting fresh, organic fruit without grocery store dependence - plums grow beautifully under organic management when varieties are properly matched to your conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need more than one plum tree to get fruit? It depends on the variety. Many European plums are self-pollinating - Italian Prune and Stanley can produce fruit with only one tree. Most Japanese plums require cross-pollination with a compatible variety. The Santa Rosa plum tree is partially self fertile but sets a much larger crop with a pollinator nearby. Our consultation service helps you determine whether you need a second tree and which pairing works best.
When will my plum tree start producing fruit? Plum trees typically bear fruit 3 to 5 years after planting. Dwarf varieties on precocious rootstocks like Krymsk 1 sometimes fruit as early as year 2–3, though yields increase substantially with maturity. Plum trees benefit from deep watering rather than frequent shallow watering during establishment for fastest results.
How much space do I need? Standard trees need 15–20 feet of spacing. Semi dwarf varieties require somewhat less, and dwarf trees can be planted 8–10 feet apart - or even grown in large containers for a small garden or patio. Fertilization with balanced fruit tree fertilizer is recommended in early spring to support healthy growth regardless of size.
What if my soil isn't ideal? We offer professional soil testing and amendment recommendations. Plum trees need full sun and well-drained soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. Most California soils can be improved with proper amendments - and knowing your baseline before planting saves years of frustration.
Can you help me choose the right variety? Absolutely. Buy plum trees from a specialist who understands your climate. Our consultation service includes personalized variety recommendations based on your location, available space, chill hours, soil conditions, and whether you want juicy plums for fresh eating, firm fruit for drying, or both.
When should I plant? Plant plum trees in early spring after frost. Bare root trees shipped dormant establish most successfully during this window. Buy plum trees at specialist fruit tree nurseries like ours, and purchase seeds for wild plum trees from specialist growers if you're interested in native plums or hedgerow plantings.
Ready to Enjoy Home-Grown Plums?
Stop buying expensive, flavorless fruit that was picked weeks before it reached your kitchen. California produces over 90% of the nation's fresh plum crop with more than 200 varieties cultivated - and the best plum trees from that incredible diversity can be growing in your yard this season.
Choose your Premium Plum Trees and start harvesting sweet, juicy plums within just a few years.
Plants vary greatly by type and no guarantees are made on sizing.
However here is a rough idea of sizes based on containers that are direct from our growing grounds.
15 Gallon Shrub 3-4 Ft. Tall
15 Gallon Tree 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Shrub 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Tree 6-7 Ft. Tall
36" Box Tree 8-10 Ft. Tall
48" Box Tree 10-12 Ft. Tall
Please note: Citrus and California Native plants such as Manzanita are smaller than traditional sizing.
Please contact us to confirm sizing of items before purchasing if this is a concern.
Plants vary greatly by type and no guarantees are made on sizing.
However here is a rough idea of sizes based on containers that are direct from our growing grounds.
15 Gallon Shrub 3-4 Ft. Tall
15 Gallon Tree 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Shrub 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Tree 6-7 Ft. Tall
36" Box Tree 8-10 Ft. Tall
48" Box Tree 10-12 Ft. Tall
Please note: Citrus and California Native plants such as Manzanita are smaller than traditional sizing.
Please contact us to confirm sizing of items before purchasing if this is a concern.
Delivery does not include unloading of trees and plants larger than a 24" box.
Trees and plants in smaller containers will be dropped curbside.
Delivery beyond a curbside drop will be charged extra.
Trees and plants that are sold in container sizes larger than a 24" box size will require equipment and an operator onsite to help unload from the truck.
Please reach out to our team PRIOR to placing your order to coordinate.
Our team can provide unloading assistance with equipment for an extra fee.
Delivery does not include unloading of trees and plants larger than a 24" box.
Trees and plants in smaller containers will be dropped curbside.
Delivery beyond a curbside drop will be charged extra.
Trees and plants that are sold in container sizes larger than a 24" box size will require equipment and an operator onsite to help unload from the truck.
Please reach out to our team PRIOR to placing your order to coordinate.
Our team can provide unloading assistance with equipment for an extra fee.
You may also like...
Plum Tree For Sale
Regular price
$495.00
Variety
Size
Fresh, Juicy Plums from Your Own Backyard in Just 3–5 Years
Growing your own plum trees means harvesting sweet and juicy fruit that tastes nothing like what you find on grocery store shelves. Plum trees typically bear fruit 3 to 5 years after planting, and once they hit their stride, a single mature tree can deliver up to 2–3 bushels of delicious fruit every season. Whether you're craving reddish purple plums straight off the branch, planning a batch of homemade preserves, or simply want beautiful blossoms lighting up your yard each spring, a well-chosen plum tree is one of the most rewarding fruit trees you can plant.
Why You'll Love Our Plum Trees
-
Abundant Harvests – A mature, well-maintained tree produces up to 2 bushels of flavorful fruit per year. With the right care, you'll have more juicy plums than you know what to do with - perfect for fresh eating, drying, baking, and sharing with neighbors.
-
Year-Round Beauty – Plum trees offer stunning white flowers in spring, lush green foliage through summer, and dramatic fruit displays into early fall. They're a true edible landscape centerpiece that rivals any flowering tree for ornamental beauty.
-
Versatile Fruit – From sweet fruit eaten straight off the tree to dried plums, jams, and pies, plums are among the most versatile stone fruits you can grow. European plums are known for their sweet, firm fruit ideal for preserves, while Japanese plums deliver softer, juicier flesh for eating fresh.
-
Cold Hardy Varieties – We carry selections suited to California's diverse climate zones, from low-chill Japanese varieties for Southern California to cold hardy European types that thrive in Northern California's cooler elevations and even cold climates at higher altitudes.
-
Long-Term Investment – With proper care, plum trees remain productive for 15–30 years. That's decades of rich flavor from a single planting.
What Makes Our Plum Trees Different
Most nurseries stock a handful of generic varieties with little guidance on whether they'll actually produce fruit in your specific location. You pick a tree, take it home, and hope for the best.
Our plum trees are selected and sold differently:
-
Climate-Matched Selection – There are over 100 species of plums worldwide, and choosing the wrong one for your zone is the most common reason trees fail to bear fruit. We match every variety to California's specific chill hour requirements and growing conditions so your tree thrives from day one.
-
Expert Pollination Planning – Self-pollination varies among plum varieties; some require a compatible partner. Many European plums are self-pollinating, like Italian Prune, but most Japanese plums require cross-pollination with compatible varieties. We help you select the right pairing - or identify self fertile options if you only have room for one tree.
-
Professional Consultation Available – Our specialists walk you through variety selection, planting placement, soil requirements, and ongoing care. No guesswork, no wasted seasons.
-
Premium Root Systems – We ship healthy, vigorous bare root and container-grown trees with robust root systems that establish quickly. Bare-root plum trees establish better than container-grown trees, and mail order trees are shipped dormant in early spring for optimal transplant success.
How To Grow Plum Trees Successfully
-
Year 1: Plant and Establish Plant plum trees in early spring after frost has thawed. Choose a spot with full sun - plum trees require full sun with ideally 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Prepare your site with well draining soil, and position your root ball at the proper depth. Avoid planting plum trees in low-lying areas prone to frost damage.
-
Years 2–3: Growth and Training Annual pruning is necessary for healthy growth and fruit development. Prune plum trees to an open center form for better growth, removing water sprouts and crossing branches to promote airflow and light penetration. Fertilize young plum trees with 10-10-10 in mid-April, and support young trees with consistent deep watering during the growing season.
-
Years 3–5: First Harvest Fruit production begins - small at first, then increasing each year. Thinning young fruit helps increase size and sweetness of remaining plums. You'll start enjoying your first sweet fruit during this phase, especially if you planted dwarf varieties on precocious rootstocks like Krymsk 1.
-
Years 5+: Full Production Mature trees hit their stride, delivering a huge crop annually. With continued pruning, pest management, and proper irrigation, your tree will produce fruit reliably for decades.
Plum Tree Varieties and Details
Plum trees are broadly categorized into European, Japanese, and American types, and each group brings distinct advantages to your garden.
European Plum Trees (Prunus domestica) European plums bloom later than Japanese varieties, offering better frost resistance - a real advantage in Northern California and higher-elevation gardens. Top picks include:
-
Italian Prune – The classic prune plum tree with firm, sweet fruit perfect for drying. Self-pollinating and reliable. Higher chill requirement (700–800 hours).
-
Green Gage – Prized for centuries for its exceptional sweet flavor and greenish yellow flesh. A true heirloom variety.
-
Stanley – Another excellent prune plum, self fertile and productive. Great for preserves and eating fresh.
-
Damson Plum – Smaller, tart fruit traditionally used for jams and liqueurs. Extremely cold hardy.
Japanese Plum Trees Japanese plums bloom earlier and are often softer than European plums, with larger, rounder, incredibly juicy fruit. Best plum trees for Southern and Central California include:
-
Santa Rosa Plum Tree – California's signature variety, needing only 300–400 chill hours. Partially self fertile but yields increase significantly with a pollination partner. Large fruit with amber flesh and rich flavor ripens in July.
-
Beauty – A low-chill champion (approximately 200 hours), ideal for warm Southern California zones. Early ripening produces juicy fruit by early summer.
-
Burbank – Burbank plums are known for their juicy, sweet fruit. Burbank and Burgundy plums need cross-pollination for better fruit set.
-
Methley – Partially self-pollinating with sweet, reddish purple plums. A great choice if you want only one tree.
-
Shiro – Beautiful yellow flesh with mild, sweet flavor.
American Plum (Prunus americana) and Hybrids Native American plums are smaller and more disease-resistant, making them excellent for hedgerows and wildlife plantings. Many native plum trees are self-pollinating. The american plum and beach plum varieties add diversity - though beach plums require cross-pollination to bear fruit. Hybrid plums combine traits from different plum species, often delivering improved disease resistance with excellent eating quality.
Tree Sizes Plum trees are typically sold as standards or semi-dwarfs. Rootstock determines mature size:
-
Standard: 15–25 ft tall, 15–22 ft spacing. Maximum yield potential.
-
Semi-Dwarf: 8–12 ft, moderate spacing. A great balance of fruit production and manageable size.
-
Dwarf (Krymsk 1 rootstock): 6–10 ft. Small trees perfect for a small garden, patios, or containers. May produce fruit as early as year 2–3.
Trees should be spaced 12 to 18 feet apart for adequate air circulation. Plant two different Japanese plum varieties within 100 yards for pollination if growing varieties that require cross pollination.
Harvest Timing: July through September depending on variety - Japanese plums ripen from July through mid-August; european varieties extend the season into September and early fall.
Soil Testing Available: Plum trees thrive in well-draining, loamy soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. We offer professional soil analysis to ensure optimal growing conditions before you plant.
Who Our Plum Trees Are Perfect For
-
California Homeowners looking to add productive fruit trees to their landscape alongside other edible favorites like apricot or guava trees.
-
Beginning Fruit Gardeners wanting reliable, forgiving trees - especially self pollinating european varieties that produce fruit without a partner.
-
Cooking Enthusiasts who want fresh ingredients for preserves, baking, and dried plums. Italian plum and damson plum varieties are purpose-built for the kitchen.
-
Landscape Designers seeking dual-purpose trees that deliver both ornamental beauty and edible fruit. Plum trees belong to the rose family within the genus Prunus, and their spring display rivals dedicated ornamentals.
-
Anyone wanting fresh, organic fruit without grocery store dependence - plums grow beautifully under organic management when varieties are properly matched to your conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need more than one plum tree to get fruit? It depends on the variety. Many European plums are self-pollinating - Italian Prune and Stanley can produce fruit with only one tree. Most Japanese plums require cross-pollination with a compatible variety. The Santa Rosa plum tree is partially self fertile but sets a much larger crop with a pollinator nearby. Our consultation service helps you determine whether you need a second tree and which pairing works best.
When will my plum tree start producing fruit? Plum trees typically bear fruit 3 to 5 years after planting. Dwarf varieties on precocious rootstocks like Krymsk 1 sometimes fruit as early as year 2–3, though yields increase substantially with maturity. Plum trees benefit from deep watering rather than frequent shallow watering during establishment for fastest results.
How much space do I need? Standard trees need 15–20 feet of spacing. Semi dwarf varieties require somewhat less, and dwarf trees can be planted 8–10 feet apart - or even grown in large containers for a small garden or patio. Fertilization with balanced fruit tree fertilizer is recommended in early spring to support healthy growth regardless of size.
What if my soil isn't ideal? We offer professional soil testing and amendment recommendations. Plum trees need full sun and well-drained soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. Most California soils can be improved with proper amendments - and knowing your baseline before planting saves years of frustration.
Can you help me choose the right variety? Absolutely. Buy plum trees from a specialist who understands your climate. Our consultation service includes personalized variety recommendations based on your location, available space, chill hours, soil conditions, and whether you want juicy plums for fresh eating, firm fruit for drying, or both.
When should I plant? Plant plum trees in early spring after frost. Bare root trees shipped dormant establish most successfully during this window. Buy plum trees at specialist fruit tree nurseries like ours, and purchase seeds for wild plum trees from specialist growers if you're interested in native plums or hedgerow plantings.
Ready to Enjoy Home-Grown Plums?
Stop buying expensive, flavorless fruit that was picked weeks before it reached your kitchen. California produces over 90% of the nation's fresh plum crop with more than 200 varieties cultivated - and the best plum trees from that incredible diversity can be growing in your yard this season.
Choose your Premium Plum Trees and start harvesting sweet, juicy plums within just a few years.
Fresh, Juicy Plums from Your Own Backyard in Just 3–5 Years
Growing your own plum trees means harvesting sweet and juicy fruit that tastes nothing like what you find on grocery store shelves. Plum trees typically bear fruit 3 to 5 years after planting, and once they hit their stride, a single mature tree can deliver up to 2–3 bushels of delicious fruit every season. Whether you're craving reddish purple plums straight off the branch, planning a batch of homemade preserves, or simply want beautiful blossoms lighting up your yard each spring, a well-chosen plum tree is one of the most rewarding fruit trees you can plant.
Why You'll Love Our Plum Trees
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Abundant Harvests – A mature, well-maintained tree produces up to 2 bushels of flavorful fruit per year. With the right care, you'll have more juicy plums than you know what to do with - perfect for fresh eating, drying, baking, and sharing with neighbors.
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Year-Round Beauty – Plum trees offer stunning white flowers in spring, lush green foliage through summer, and dramatic fruit displays into early fall. They're a true edible landscape centerpiece that rivals any flowering tree for ornamental beauty.
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Versatile Fruit – From sweet fruit eaten straight off the tree to dried plums, jams, and pies, plums are among the most versatile stone fruits you can grow. European plums are known for their sweet, firm fruit ideal for preserves, while Japanese plums deliver softer, juicier flesh for eating fresh.
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Cold Hardy Varieties – We carry selections suited to California's diverse climate zones, from low-chill Japanese varieties for Southern California to cold hardy European types that thrive in Northern California's cooler elevations and even cold climates at higher altitudes.
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Long-Term Investment – With proper care, plum trees remain productive for 15–30 years. That's decades of rich flavor from a single planting.
What Makes Our Plum Trees Different
Most nurseries stock a handful of generic varieties with little guidance on whether they'll actually produce fruit in your specific location. You pick a tree, take it home, and hope for the best.
Our plum trees are selected and sold differently:
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Climate-Matched Selection – There are over 100 species of plums worldwide, and choosing the wrong one for your zone is the most common reason trees fail to bear fruit. We match every variety to California's specific chill hour requirements and growing conditions so your tree thrives from day one.
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Expert Pollination Planning – Self-pollination varies among plum varieties; some require a compatible partner. Many European plums are self-pollinating, like Italian Prune, but most Japanese plums require cross-pollination with compatible varieties. We help you select the right pairing - or identify self fertile options if you only have room for one tree.
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Professional Consultation Available – Our specialists walk you through variety selection, planting placement, soil requirements, and ongoing care. No guesswork, no wasted seasons.
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Premium Root Systems – We ship healthy, vigorous bare root and container-grown trees with robust root systems that establish quickly. Bare-root plum trees establish better than container-grown trees, and mail order trees are shipped dormant in early spring for optimal transplant success.
How To Grow Plum Trees Successfully
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Year 1: Plant and Establish Plant plum trees in early spring after frost has thawed. Choose a spot with full sun - plum trees require full sun with ideally 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Prepare your site with well draining soil, and position your root ball at the proper depth. Avoid planting plum trees in low-lying areas prone to frost damage.
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Years 2–3: Growth and Training Annual pruning is necessary for healthy growth and fruit development. Prune plum trees to an open center form for better growth, removing water sprouts and crossing branches to promote airflow and light penetration. Fertilize young plum trees with 10-10-10 in mid-April, and support young trees with consistent deep watering during the growing season.
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Years 3–5: First Harvest Fruit production begins - small at first, then increasing each year. Thinning young fruit helps increase size and sweetness of remaining plums. You'll start enjoying your first sweet fruit during this phase, especially if you planted dwarf varieties on precocious rootstocks like Krymsk 1.
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Years 5+: Full Production Mature trees hit their stride, delivering a huge crop annually. With continued pruning, pest management, and proper irrigation, your tree will produce fruit reliably for decades.
Plum Tree Varieties and Details
Plum trees are broadly categorized into European, Japanese, and American types, and each group brings distinct advantages to your garden.
European Plum Trees (Prunus domestica) European plums bloom later than Japanese varieties, offering better frost resistance - a real advantage in Northern California and higher-elevation gardens. Top picks include:
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Italian Prune – The classic prune plum tree with firm, sweet fruit perfect for drying. Self-pollinating and reliable. Higher chill requirement (700–800 hours).
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Green Gage – Prized for centuries for its exceptional sweet flavor and greenish yellow flesh. A true heirloom variety.
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Stanley – Another excellent prune plum, self fertile and productive. Great for preserves and eating fresh.
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Damson Plum – Smaller, tart fruit traditionally used for jams and liqueurs. Extremely cold hardy.
Japanese Plum Trees Japanese plums bloom earlier and are often softer than European plums, with larger, rounder, incredibly juicy fruit. Best plum trees for Southern and Central California include:
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Santa Rosa Plum Tree – California's signature variety, needing only 300–400 chill hours. Partially self fertile but yields increase significantly with a pollination partner. Large fruit with amber flesh and rich flavor ripens in July.
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Beauty – A low-chill champion (approximately 200 hours), ideal for warm Southern California zones. Early ripening produces juicy fruit by early summer.
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Burbank – Burbank plums are known for their juicy, sweet fruit. Burbank and Burgundy plums need cross-pollination for better fruit set.
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Methley – Partially self-pollinating with sweet, reddish purple plums. A great choice if you want only one tree.
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Shiro – Beautiful yellow flesh with mild, sweet flavor.
American Plum (Prunus americana) and Hybrids Native American plums are smaller and more disease-resistant, making them excellent for hedgerows and wildlife plantings. Many native plum trees are self-pollinating. The american plum and beach plum varieties add diversity - though beach plums require cross-pollination to bear fruit. Hybrid plums combine traits from different plum species, often delivering improved disease resistance with excellent eating quality.
Tree Sizes Plum trees are typically sold as standards or semi-dwarfs. Rootstock determines mature size:
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Standard: 15–25 ft tall, 15–22 ft spacing. Maximum yield potential.
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Semi-Dwarf: 8–12 ft, moderate spacing. A great balance of fruit production and manageable size.
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Dwarf (Krymsk 1 rootstock): 6–10 ft. Small trees perfect for a small garden, patios, or containers. May produce fruit as early as year 2–3.
Trees should be spaced 12 to 18 feet apart for adequate air circulation. Plant two different Japanese plum varieties within 100 yards for pollination if growing varieties that require cross pollination.
Harvest Timing: July through September depending on variety - Japanese plums ripen from July through mid-August; european varieties extend the season into September and early fall.
Soil Testing Available: Plum trees thrive in well-draining, loamy soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. We offer professional soil analysis to ensure optimal growing conditions before you plant.
Who Our Plum Trees Are Perfect For
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California Homeowners looking to add productive fruit trees to their landscape alongside other edible favorites like apricot or guava trees.
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Beginning Fruit Gardeners wanting reliable, forgiving trees - especially self pollinating european varieties that produce fruit without a partner.
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Cooking Enthusiasts who want fresh ingredients for preserves, baking, and dried plums. Italian plum and damson plum varieties are purpose-built for the kitchen.
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Landscape Designers seeking dual-purpose trees that deliver both ornamental beauty and edible fruit. Plum trees belong to the rose family within the genus Prunus, and their spring display rivals dedicated ornamentals.
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Anyone wanting fresh, organic fruit without grocery store dependence - plums grow beautifully under organic management when varieties are properly matched to your conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need more than one plum tree to get fruit? It depends on the variety. Many European plums are self-pollinating - Italian Prune and Stanley can produce fruit with only one tree. Most Japanese plums require cross-pollination with a compatible variety. The Santa Rosa plum tree is partially self fertile but sets a much larger crop with a pollinator nearby. Our consultation service helps you determine whether you need a second tree and which pairing works best.
When will my plum tree start producing fruit? Plum trees typically bear fruit 3 to 5 years after planting. Dwarf varieties on precocious rootstocks like Krymsk 1 sometimes fruit as early as year 2–3, though yields increase substantially with maturity. Plum trees benefit from deep watering rather than frequent shallow watering during establishment for fastest results.
How much space do I need? Standard trees need 15–20 feet of spacing. Semi dwarf varieties require somewhat less, and dwarf trees can be planted 8–10 feet apart - or even grown in large containers for a small garden or patio. Fertilization with balanced fruit tree fertilizer is recommended in early spring to support healthy growth regardless of size.
What if my soil isn't ideal? We offer professional soil testing and amendment recommendations. Plum trees need full sun and well-drained soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. Most California soils can be improved with proper amendments - and knowing your baseline before planting saves years of frustration.
Can you help me choose the right variety? Absolutely. Buy plum trees from a specialist who understands your climate. Our consultation service includes personalized variety recommendations based on your location, available space, chill hours, soil conditions, and whether you want juicy plums for fresh eating, firm fruit for drying, or both.
When should I plant? Plant plum trees in early spring after frost. Bare root trees shipped dormant establish most successfully during this window. Buy plum trees at specialist fruit tree nurseries like ours, and purchase seeds for wild plum trees from specialist growers if you're interested in native plums or hedgerow plantings.
Ready to Enjoy Home-Grown Plums?
Stop buying expensive, flavorless fruit that was picked weeks before it reached your kitchen. California produces over 90% of the nation's fresh plum crop with more than 200 varieties cultivated - and the best plum trees from that incredible diversity can be growing in your yard this season.
Choose your Premium Plum Trees and start harvesting sweet, juicy plums within just a few years.
Plants vary greatly by type and no guarantees are made on sizing.
However here is a rough idea of sizes based on containers that are direct from our growing grounds.
15 Gallon Shrub 3-4 Ft. Tall
15 Gallon Tree 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Shrub 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Tree 6-7 Ft. Tall
36" Box Tree 8-10 Ft. Tall
48" Box Tree 10-12 Ft. Tall
Please note: Citrus and California Native plants such as Manzanita are smaller than traditional sizing.
Please contact us to confirm sizing of items before purchasing if this is a concern.
Plants vary greatly by type and no guarantees are made on sizing.
However here is a rough idea of sizes based on containers that are direct from our growing grounds.
15 Gallon Shrub 3-4 Ft. Tall
15 Gallon Tree 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Shrub 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Tree 6-7 Ft. Tall
36" Box Tree 8-10 Ft. Tall
48" Box Tree 10-12 Ft. Tall
Please note: Citrus and California Native plants such as Manzanita are smaller than traditional sizing.
Please contact us to confirm sizing of items before purchasing if this is a concern.
Delivery does not include unloading of trees and plants larger than a 24" box.
Trees and plants in smaller containers will be dropped curbside.
Delivery beyond a curbside drop will be charged extra.
Trees and plants that are sold in container sizes larger than a 24" box size will require equipment and an operator onsite to help unload from the truck.
Please reach out to our team PRIOR to placing your order to coordinate.
Our team can provide unloading assistance with equipment for an extra fee.
Delivery does not include unloading of trees and plants larger than a 24" box.
Trees and plants in smaller containers will be dropped curbside.
Delivery beyond a curbside drop will be charged extra.
Trees and plants that are sold in container sizes larger than a 24" box size will require equipment and an operator onsite to help unload from the truck.
Please reach out to our team PRIOR to placing your order to coordinate.
Our team can provide unloading assistance with equipment for an extra fee.
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Thousands of Healthy Plants Delivered
Yardwork was so great to work with. First they had the Swan Hill olive trees that we had been searching for, we had contacted several other nurseries without any luck previously. Then they answered all of our questions in a timely matter prior to ordering and finally delivered within a few days of placing it. Their staff is incredibly knowledgeable; they delivered and planted our trees with expertise to ensure that they would do well in our yard. We would definitely work with them again for future projects.
A Modern Experience
At Yardwork, we carefully curate thousands of plants, in all container sizes, to provide you with the best selection of the highest quality trees and plants at the best price, with the convenience of an online platform.
Uncompromised Quality
We choose only the finest specimens and hand select our plants just before delivery to ensure you receive the freshest and most robust specimens available for your landscape.
Industry Leading Warranties
Our 30, 90, and 365 extended warranties provide some of the best coverage to ensure our trees and plants thrive in your landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions
We're committed to changing everything about trees and plants - how they’re grown, how you shop for them, and how much they cost. We handle orders ourselves. No middlemen to get between us (or our prices) and you.
We're committed to changing everything about trees and plants - how they’re grown, how you shop for them, and how much they cost. We handle orders ourselves. No middlemen to get between us (or our prices) and you.
Delivery does not include unloading of trees and plants LARGER than a 24" box.
Trees and plants in smaller containers will be dropped curbside (usually on the driveway or near the front doorstep).
Delivery beyond a curbside drop will be charged extra.
Trees and plants that are sold in container sizes LARGER than a 24" box size will require equipment and/or enough manpower onsite to help unload from the truck.
Please reach out to our team PRIOR to placing your order to help coordinate.
Our team can provide unloading assistance with equipment for an extra fee as well.
Delivery does not include unloading of trees and plants LARGER than a 24" box.
Trees and plants in smaller containers will be dropped curbside (usually on the driveway or near the front doorstep).
Delivery beyond a curbside drop will be charged extra.
Trees and plants that are sold in container sizes LARGER than a 24" box size will require equipment and/or enough manpower onsite to help unload from the truck.
Please reach out to our team PRIOR to placing your order to help coordinate.
Our team can provide unloading assistance with equipment for an extra fee as well.
We ship locally within California within 7-10 days of your order being placed.
We ship nationally using carrier partners, based on order size. Our common order minimums for out of state shipping is $5,000.
Text or call 323-576-4159 for specific shipping details for your location.
We ship locally within California within 7-10 days of your order being placed.
We ship nationally using carrier partners, based on order size. Our common order minimums for out of state shipping is $5,000.
Text or call 323-576-4159 for specific shipping details for your location.
We are currently online only and don't have physical locations where you can view plants in person.
That's why we have photos direct from the growing grounds of the plants we will ship and we display pricing right in our store.
We do make sure to pick the very best trees and plants prior to shipping and make sure that they have gone through our multi-point inspection for health and structure.
We will always reach out prior to delivery if we find a quality issue or need to provide a substitute.
We are currently online only and don't have physical locations where you can view plants in person.
That's why we have photos direct from the growing grounds of the plants we will ship and we display pricing right in our store.
We do make sure to pick the very best trees and plants prior to shipping and make sure that they have gone through our multi-point inspection for health and structure.
We will always reach out prior to delivery if we find a quality issue or need to provide a substitute.
Plants vary greatly by type. Here is a rough idea of sizes based on containers that are direct from our growing grounds.
15 Gallon Shrub 3-4 Ft. Tall
15 Gallon Tree 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Shrub 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Tree 6-7 Ft. Tall
36" Box Shrub/Tree 7-9 Ft. Tall
48" Box Shrub/Tree 8-10 Ft. Tall
**Please note that we do not make guarantees of sizes. If you have questions or concerns, please call or text to request accurate sizing for the particular plant you're considering, prior to ordering.
Plants vary greatly by type. Here is a rough idea of sizes based on containers that are direct from our growing grounds.
15 Gallon Shrub 3-4 Ft. Tall
15 Gallon Tree 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Shrub 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Tree 6-7 Ft. Tall
36" Box Shrub/Tree 7-9 Ft. Tall
48" Box Shrub/Tree 8-10 Ft. Tall
**Please note that we do not make guarantees of sizes. If you have questions or concerns, please call or text to request accurate sizing for the particular plant you're considering, prior to ordering.
We offer a limited 30 day warranty for plants that are delivered and planted by someone else and a 90 day warranty for plants that we plant.
The limited warranty covers plants that die as a result of disease or fungus which was derived from our growing grounds or from root balls that were root bound.
The warranty does not cover damage due to watering, fertilizer, soils, or any other conditions beyond our control. Additionally, the warranty does not cover plants that are shipped out of the state of California or shipped into California from other states. Custom plant orders are also not covered under warranty. Plants must be planted within 24 hours after delivery to qualify.
We can assist you in recommending the right soils and fertilizers to help your plant thrive after you plant it.
Text or call 323-576-4159 for further warranty information.
We offer a limited 30 day warranty for plants that are delivered and planted by someone else and a 90 day warranty for plants that we plant.
The limited warranty covers plants that die as a result of disease or fungus which was derived from our growing grounds or from root balls that were root bound.
The warranty does not cover damage due to watering, fertilizer, soils, or any other conditions beyond our control. Additionally, the warranty does not cover plants that are shipped out of the state of California or shipped into California from other states. Custom plant orders are also not covered under warranty. Plants must be planted within 24 hours after delivery to qualify.
We can assist you in recommending the right soils and fertilizers to help your plant thrive after you plant it.
Text or call 323-576-4159 for further warranty information.
Our local delivery team covers most cities in California.
There are some exceptions, so please get in touch to confirm prior to ordering.
Additionally, we ship using semi trucks and trailers throughout the entire United States and even abroad for large orders over $5,000. Each shipment is custom, so please reach out to our team to coordinate.
Our local delivery team covers most cities in California.
There are some exceptions, so please get in touch to confirm prior to ordering.
Additionally, we ship using semi trucks and trailers throughout the entire United States and even abroad for large orders over $5,000. Each shipment is custom, so please reach out to our team to coordinate.