Purple Leaf Sand Cherry (Prunus x cistena)

The Purple Leaf sand cherry tree has a lot of botanical significance. It is scientifically known as Prunus x cistena and it is classified as a member of the Rosaceae family. The most significant part of this tree is its purple foliage. The preferred hardiness zones for this cherry tree are Zones 2 to 8.


Description
The Purple Leaf sand cherry grows to a height of 7 to 10 feet and has a considerable width. As it grows up, the tree assumes an oval shape and when it reaches maturity, it develops an arch shape with an open centre especially when it is not pruned.

Environmental Condition
This tree requires full or partial sunlight if it is to grow and blossom well. If it is grown in a place where there is too much shade, its leaves change to bronze green in color. It grows well in organically rich, moist and well drained soils.

Leaves and Flowering
The leaves of Purple Leaf sand cherry tree are reddish purple in color measuring about 2 inches long. They have an elliptical shape and turn bronze green during fall. The reason behind this is that during this season, sunlight is not as strong as during spring and summer. The sun is also essential for flowering. The flowers are solitary, fragrant and white in color. They bloom during the spring period immediately after the foliage emerges. The flowering period gives way to the production of fruits that are small and blackish purple in color. The fruits mature in July and are eaten by birds.

After the flowering period, the Purple Leaf sand cherry has to be pruned. Propagation is done through stem cuttings.

Drawbacks
The Purple Leaf sand cherry tree is susceptible to diseases and pests. This makes it to have a short lifespan of not more than 10 years. The specific pests that wreak havoc on this tree include the borers, trunk cankers and Japanese beetles. The leaves are also affected by these pests.