Alpine Cherry

prunus prostrata

Also known as: ["Alpine Plum","Prostrate Cherry"]

Family: Rosaceae Genus: Prunus Category: Shrubs

Overview

A low-growing, spreading shrub native to the mountains of Europe and North Africa, known for its small, pinkish-white flowers and edible but tart fruits.

Benefits & Perks

["edible fruits","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Rosales
Family: Rosaceae
Genus: Prunus
Botanical Name: Prunus prostrata

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Shrubs
  • Suitable Location: rock gardens, slopes, or alpine conditions
  • Suitable For:
    Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–15–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil; mix of loam, sand, and organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in summer; ensure good air circulation.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves (overwatering); stunted growth (poor soil); mold on surface (poor drainage).

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Morning sun is ideal; avoid direct afternoon sun in summer; rotate plant for even light exposure.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.

Soil

well-drained, slightly alkaline soil

pH: 6.0–7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral).

Ensure soil is loose and airy; avoid heavy clay; amend with organic matter for fertility.

Temperature

Hardy to USDA zones 5–8; prefers 50–75°F (10–24°C); tolerates cold but needs protection from extreme heat.

Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; ensure good air circulation.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer

Fertilize lightly; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; stop feeding before winter.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or layering.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take cuttings.
  2. Apply rooting hormone.
  3. Plant in medium.
  4. Maintain humidity.
  5. Transplant when rooted.

Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is present.

Environment

High humidity (70–80%); warm temperatures (65–75°F); partial shade.

Medium

Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or sand.

Hormone

Rooting hormone recommended for faster root development.

Timeline

Roots in 4–8 weeks; establish in 3–6 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Thinning cuts to open the canopy; heading cuts to encourage branching.

Pruning Plan

Shape plant; remove dead or crossing branches; encourage bushier growth.

Tools

Pruning shears, loppers, sterilizing solution.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged wood; shape plant; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before new growth begins.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.

Checklist

Choose new pot; prepare fresh soil; inspect roots; repot carefully; water lightly.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the roots without wetting foliage.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Leaf scorch in excessive heat; leaf drop or dieback in prolonged cold.

Cold Stress

Slows growth; may cause dieback of tender stems; roots can freeze in poorly drained soil.

Solution: Mulch heavily in winter; protect from freezing winds; avoid overwatering in cold.

Hot Stress

Wilting; leaf scorch; reduced flowering; increased susceptibility to pests.

Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase humidity; water deeply in the morning.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid over-fertilizing.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring; avoid feeding in late summer or fall.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Prunus prostrata can indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, potentially affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Prunus prostrata may be caused by water stress, either due to overwatering leading to root rot or underwatering causing dehydration, both of which can severely impact plant vitality.

Leaf spots on Prunus prostrata are often caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, which can lead to defoliation and reduced photosynthetic capacity, weakening the plant.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Prunus prostrata due to excessive moisture or fungal infections, leading to decay and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Cats are highly sensitive to cyanogenic glycosides, which can lead to severe poisoning and systemic effects.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting lethargy difficulty breathing tremors seizures collapse
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves seeds stems bark
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. Immediate veterinary care is essential if ingestion occurs.
Dogs
Toxic

The cyanogenic glycosides in Prunus prostrata can cause cyanide poisoning in dogs, affecting their respiratory and nervous systems.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea difficulty breathing weakness tremors seizures
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves seeds stems bark
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep dogs away from the plant. Contact a veterinarian immediately if ingestion is suspected.
Humans
Toxic

Prunus prostrata contains cyanogenic glycosides, which can release cyanide upon ingestion, leading to poisoning. The physiological impact includes disruption of cellular respiration and potential organ damage.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting abdominal pain dizziness difficulty breathing weakness convulsions
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves seeds stems bark
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion of any parts of the plant. Seek immediate medical attention if poisoning is suspected.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Prunus prostrata suitable for rock gardens?

A: Yes, it thrives in rocky, well-drained soils and is well-suited for alpine and rock garden settings.

Q: Are the fruits of Prunus prostrata edible?

A: The fruits are edible but tart and are often used in jams or preserves.

Q: How should Prunus prostrata be pruned?

A: Light pruning after flowering is recommended to maintain shape and encourage fruit production.

Quick Reference
Family: Rosaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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