Prunus × cistena, commonly called purple-leaf sand cherry, is an upright deciduous shrub that typically grows 6-10’ tall and 5-8’ wide. It also may be trained as a small tree. This is a very hardy flowering landscape specimen with reddish-purple foliage that keeps its unique color all summer.
Best grown in moist, organically rich, well-drained soils in full sun. Tolerates part shade, but best flowering and leaf color generally occur in full sun. Good soil drainage is essential. Prune as needed after flowering. Propagate by rooted stem cuttings. The Genus name from Latin means plum or cherry tree (sometimes called either). Best grown in zones 2-8.
Produces fragrant light pink to white flowers from late April to early May. Features an attractive. reddish-purple leaf coloring that lasts through the summer. Yields purple-black fruit primarily for wildlife.
The fruit of the purple leaf sand cherry (Prunus × cistena) is edible but has a strong flavor, and some people make jams or preserves from it. However, the pits should not be eaten. The plant itself is not poisonous, and is a popular flowering tree used in landscaping due to its distinctive reddish-purple foliage
Plant size and shape may differ from what is pictured.
For mail orders: Plants may go through shock during shipping. Upon arrival, take the plant out and water it thoroughly. If you are not satisfied with your purchase, please notify us via email at sales@amgardens.com and include a photo(s) within 24 hours of plant arrival.
For in store purchases: If you are not satisfied with your purchase, please call us at 423-870-5000 or return the plant in its original pot/condition within 3 days. Trees and shrubs have a 1 year warranty (exceptions may apply), but we highly encourage you to give us a call or email if you notice issues with your plant. We'd love to help you figure out what's wrong and save your plant!
Orders are shipped on Wednesdays and Thursdays; if your order is placed on a Wednesday, it may not ship until the following Wednesday. During peak season there may be delays in shipping. If it is too hot or cold, we suggest ordering during milder months to ensure plants arrive in best condition.