Prunus salicina 'Santa Rosa', commonly known as the Santa Rosa Plum, is a luscious and flavorful fruit tree celebrated for its sweet and juicy plums, beautiful spring blossoms, and abundant fruit production. This cultivar is a type of Japanese plum and is highly regarded for its unique qualities that make it a popular choice for home orchards and edible landscapes.
Common Name: Santa Rosa Plum
Mature Height (meters): Typically reaches a height of 3-4 meters, forming a moderately-sized and productive canopy.
Mature Width (meters): Spreads to approximately 2-3 meters, creating a well-rounded and fruitful tree.
Spacing: Plant with adequate spacing to allow for the tree's mature size and to optimize air circulation for healthy fruit development.
Leaves: The leaves of Prunus salicina 'Santa Rosa' are ovate and glossy green, providing an attractive backdrop to the tree's blossoms and fruit.
Flowers: In early spring, the tree produces stunning white to light pink blossoms that cover the branches, creating a visually captivating display and a source of nectar for pollinators.
Fruit: The Santa Rosa Plum is renowned for its medium-sized, round plums with deep purple skin and sweet, juicy flesh. The plums are ideal for fresh eating, canning, baking, or making jams and preserves.
Form/Habit: 'Santa Rosa' Plum typically has a rounded and moderately vigorous growth habit, making it well-suited for home gardens and orchards.
Sun: Thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal fruit production.
Maintenance: 'Santa Rosa' Plum is relatively low maintenance, but regular pruning may be required to maintain its shape, remove dead or diseased branches, and encourage fruiting.
Water Requirement: While it prefers consistent moisture, it can tolerate moderate drought once established, but regular watering is essential for fruit development.