Prunus cerasifera Nigra fastigiata

Common Name:
Upright Black Cherry Plum, Columnar Purple Leaf Plum

Description:
Prunus cerasifera 'Nigra Fastigiata' is a striking deciduous tree with a narrow, upright growth habit, making it ideal for tight spaces, avenue plantings, or formal gardens. This cultivar is a more compact and columnar form of the popular Purple Leaf Plum, featuring deep purple-black foliage that maintains its rich colour throughout the growing season. In early spring, it produces a stunning display of pale pink blossoms that contrast beautifully against its dark branches and emerging foliage. During autumn, the leaves transition to warm bronze and reddish hues before shedding. It thrives in full sun, where its foliage colour is most vibrant, and prefers well-drained soils. Drought-tolerant once established, this tree is also resistant to many common pests and diseases. It may produce small dark fruits in summer, which are attractive to birds but are not widely consumed by humans.

Form:

• Tree - Small to Medium
• Columnar / Fastigiate

Mature Size:

• Height: 5–6 m
• Width: 2–3 m

Aspect:

• Full Sun

Flowering:

• Flowers in Spring

Flower Colour:

• Pale Pink

Key Attributes:

• Suitable for Hedging
• Suitable for Topiary
• Deciduous
• Drought Tolerant (once established)
• Disease Resistant
• Bird Attracting
• Bee Attracting

Toxicity:

• The seeds and leaves contain compounds that can be toxic if ingested in large quantities.

Companion Plants:

• Loropetalum (Chinese Fringe Flower)
• Japanese Maple
• Camellia
• Azalea
• Lavender