Quick answer: American plum (Prunus americana) is native to 37 states. What's commonly sold under this name is the true wild species. It's typically seed, verified 15 Sep 2026.
Photo: Andrew Ciscel, Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)
Where it's native
Listed in the directory as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Sun, Part Shade, Shade |
|---|---|
| Water | Medium water, Moist |
| Soil | Moist, rich, well-drained loams |
| Bloom | Bloom Apr-Jun |
| Height | Up to 35 ft tall |
| Wildlife value | Valuable nesting cover, host to many butterflies, special value to native/bumble/honey bees, birds eat fruit |
All parts of tree except flesh/skin of plums contain hydrocyanic acid toxin; also has thorns/prickles
Buying it
Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (15 Sep 2026), via Amazon.
Sold as: Seed via Amazon · listing verified 15 Sep 2026
See where to buy →Quick answers about American plum
Where is American plum native?
American plum (Prunus americana) is native to 37 states across the Northeast, Midwest, South and West. Check your state's page in this directory for the full list of plants native where you live.
When does American plum bloom?
American plum blooms Apr-Jun. Exact timing shifts a few weeks with latitude and elevation.
What growing conditions does American plum need?
Light: Sun, Part Shade, Shade. Water: Medium water, Moist. Soil: Moist, rich, well-drained loams. Mature height: Up to 35 ft tall.
Is American plum good for pollinators and wildlife?
Yes. Wildlife value: Valuable nesting cover, host to many butterflies, special value to native/bumble/honey bees, birds eat fruit.
Is American plum deer-resistant or drought-tolerant?
American plum is tolerates shade.
Is American plum toxic?
All parts of tree except flesh/skin of plums contain hydrocyanic acid toxin; also has thorns/prickles.
Where can I buy real American plum seed or plants?
We found a listing sold as seed that names the true species, last checked 15 Sep 2026. Look for the scientific name Prunus americana on any listing.
Similar native plants
Native plants that share growing conditions or range with American plum.
- Green ash Fraxinus pennsylvanica
- Eastern cottonwood Populus deltoides
- Virginia creeper Parthenocissus quinquefolia
- Common hoptree Ptelea trifoliata
- Indiangrass Sorghastrum nutans
- Chokecherry Prunus virginiana
Also listed under
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