Prunus cerasifera Pissardii Nigra

Prunus cerasifera Pissardii Nigra

Why Buy Me?

• A lovely shaped tree
• Foliage changes with the seasons
• Flowering in Spring

Growing Conditions

Light:
Full sun to partial shade. Colour is best in full sun, where the dark purple foliage develops its richest tone. Tolerates partial shade but may appear greener and less vibrant.

Soil:
Moist, well-drained soil. Tolerates a range of soil types including clay, loam, and sandy soils. Prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH but is adaptable. Avoid waterlogged or very dry soils.

Exposure:
Performs well in both sheltered and exposed sites. Hardy, tolerant of frost and urban conditions. Withstands wind and air pollution well.

Drought Tolerance:
Moderate. Water regularly during dry periods in the first few years. Once established, moderately drought-tolerant but performs best with consistent moisture.

Cultivation & Care

Planting Time:
Best planted in autumn or early spring when the soil is moist and workable. Avoid planting in frozen or waterlogged conditions.

Spacing:
Allow 4–6 metres (13–20 feet) between trees. Reaches a mature height of 6–10 metres (20–33 feet) with a spread of 5–7 metres (16–23 feet). Forms a rounded to oval crown.

Watering & Fertilization:
Water regularly while establishing. Mature trees only need watering during prolonged dry spells. Apply a general-purpose fertilizer or compost mulch in early spring to promote vigour and flowering.

Mulching & Pruning:
Mulch annually in spring to conserve soil moisture and improve fertility. Prune in mid- to late summer (if needed) to maintain shape and remove dead or damaged wood. Avoid heavy pruning to preserve natural form.

Seasonal Interest

Spring:
Masses of pale pink to white single flowers appear in early spring (March–April), often before the leaves fully emerge. Very showy and attractive to pollinators.

Summer:
Deep reddish-purple leaves provide bold colour and contrast in the landscape. Foliage holds its colour well through the growing season.

Autumn:
Small red or purple cherry-like fruits may appear, especially on mature trees. Foliage may deepen in tone before leaf fall.

Winter:
Bare branches form an attractive silhouette, especially in urban or formal settings. Bark is smooth and dark, offering subtle winter texture.

Wildlife & Garden Use

Wildlife:
Spring flowers attract bees and early pollinators. Occasional fruits provide food for birds and small mammals. Provides shelter and nesting for garden birds.

Garden Use:
Excellent ornamental tree for gardens, parks, and streetscapes. Ideal as a small specimen tree, in borders, or as part of an avenue planting. Suited to both formal and informal garden styles and valued for long season of interest.

Companion Plants:
Pairs well with light or silver-leaved plants like Artemisia, Stachys byzantina, or ornamental grasses. Underplant with spring bulbs (e.g. Crocus, Narcissus), or shade-tolerant perennials like Heuchera, Brunnera, and Pulmonaria to contrast with the dark foliage.