Prunus triloba

Prunus triloba (also known as flowering almond or flowering plum) is a species of Prunus native to China and is widely cultivated for its ornamental value.

Description

Prunus triloba is a deciduous shrub or small tree that grows to a height of 10–15 feet. It has a rounded, spreading habit with branches that are often covered in showy pink flowers in early spring before the leaves emerge. The leaves are alternate, simple, 2–8 cm long, and have a lobed margin, which gives the species its name, triloba. The fruit is a small, yellow-green drupe that is not typically used for culinary purposes.

Cultivation

Prunus triloba is hardy in USDA zones 4–8 and prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It is often used as a specimen plant in landscapes due to its showy spring flowers. There are several cultivars available, including 'Multiplex', which has double flowers, and 'Albescens', which has white flowers.

Uses

While the fruit of Prunus triloba is not typically used for culinary purposes, the plant has been used in traditional Chinese medicine. The flowers are also used in floral arrangements due to their long-lasting nature.

Related Species

Prunus triloba is closely related to other members of the Prunus genus, which includes cherries, plums, peaches, nectarines, apricots, and almonds.