Prunus cerasifera Oakville Crimson Spire

Common Name:
Oakville Crimson Spire Plum

Description:
Prunus cerasifera ‘Oakville Crimson Spire’ is a striking deciduous ornamental plum tree valued for its narrow upright form, rich burgundy foliage, and spectacular spring flowering display. This elegant columnar variety produces dense deep purple-red leaves that retain their vibrant colour throughout the growing season, creating dramatic contrast in both modern and traditional landscapes. In early spring, masses of soft pale pink flowers cover the bare branches before the foliage fully emerges, attracting bees and adding vibrant seasonal interest. Its slim growth habit makes it especially suitable for narrow spaces, avenue planting, screening, and compact gardens where vertical structure is desired without excessive width. In Melbourne’s climate, ‘Oakville Crimson Spire’ performs best in full sun with fertile, well-drained soil and regular watering during establishment. It is relatively hardy and low maintenance, with excellent ornamental value across multiple seasons through its foliage, flowers, and architectural form.

Form:

• Tree - Small

Mature Size:

• Height: 5–7 m
• Width: 2–3 m

Aspect:

• Full Sun

Flowering:

• Flowers in Spring

Flower Colour:

• Pale pink
• Soft pink

Key Attributes:

• Bee Attracting
• Deciduous
• Feature Foliage
• Feature Tree
• Perennial
• Suitable for Avenue Planting
• Suitable for Screening
• Suitable for Small Gardens

Toxicity:

• Seeds, leaves, and stems may be toxic to humans and pets if ingested due to cyanogenic compounds.
• Fruit flesh is generally considered safe in small quantities.

Companion Plants:

• Clivia
• Helleborus
• Lavender
• Liriope
• Nandina
• Salvia
• Spiraea
• Viburnum
• Woodland ferns

This cultivar is grown by Flemings Nurseries, one of Australia's most renowned growers.
Image used with permission from Fleming’s Nurseries.

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