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Burbank Plum Tree
Burbank Plum Tree
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Prunus salicina 'Burbank'
Burbank Plum Tree
The Burbank Plum Tree is a legendary Japanese-style plum cultivar developed by famed horticulturist Luther Burbank. Known for its large, juicy, golden-fleshed fruit with a deep red skin, this early-ripening variety delivers outstanding flavor and reliable yields.
With stunning spring blossoms, vibrant summer fruit, and excellent adaptability, the Burbank Plum is perfect for home orchards and edible landscapes alike.
Burbank Plum Tree Overview
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| 🌿 Botanical Name | Prunus salicina 'Burbank' |
| 🏷️ Common Names | Burbank Plum |
| 🌳 Mature Height | 12–18 feet |
| 🌐 Mature Width | 12–15 feet |
| 📈 Growth Rate | Fast (24"+ per year) |
| ⏳ Lifespan | 15–25 years |
| 🧊 USDA Zones | 5–9 |
| ❄️ Chill Hours | 400–500 hours |
| ☀️ Sun Preference | Full sun |
| 🧱 Soil Type | Well-drained loam, sandy loam, or clay loam |
| ⚖️ Soil pH | Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0) |
| 💧 Water Needs | Moderate; consistent moisture needed during fruiting |
| 🌸 Flower Color | White; blooms in early to mid spring |
| 🍒 Fruit Type | Red-skinned, yellow-fleshed plum; sweet-tart flavor |
| 🐝 Pollinators | Requires cross-pollination with another Japanese plum |
| 🌿 Growth Habit | Rounded canopy; open branching |
| ↔️ Spacing | 12–15 ft for optimal airflow and yield |
| 🏡 Landscape Uses | Edible landscapes, backyard orchards, mixed fruit rows |
| 🧹 Maintenance Level | Moderate (pruning and thinning recommended) |
Environmental Benefits
🌸 Early spring blooms support awakening pollinators
🍒 Produces nutrient-rich fruit for humans and wildlife
🌳 Can be part of a diverse permaculture system
🌧️ Helps improve soil health when mulched properly
Pros & Cons
| ✅ Pros | ⚠️ Cons |
|---|---|
| 🍑 Produces large, flavorful plums with commercial quality | 🌸 Requires cross-pollination with another plum |
| ⚡ Fast growth and early fruit production | ✂️ Annual pruning required for structure and yield |
| 🌿 Adaptable to many soils and climates | 🐛 Susceptible to plum curculio and aphids |
| 🧬 A Luther Burbank original with heirloom status | 💧 Needs regular watering during fruit set and dry spells |
| 🏡 Ideal for edible landscapes and small orchards | 🍒 Shorter lifespan compared to native trees |
Planting & Care Guide
🛁 Soak root system before planting to prevent drying out
🕳️ Dig a wide, shallow hole; plant with graft union above soil line
🌾 Mulch 3–4 inches deep, keeping away from trunk base
💦 Water consistently in dry spells and during fruiting season
✂️ Prune in late winter to maintain shape and encourage airflow
🧪 Fertilize annually in early spring with balanced orchard feed
The Burbank Plum Tree is a time-tested classic that brings juicy flavor, visual beauty, and reliable performance to home growers. With proper care and a suitable pollination partner, this heirloom variety will reward you with years of bountiful harvests and springtime charm.
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