Hog Plum
Prunus hortulanafam. Rosaceae
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Pl. 437C — Prunus hortulana
Prunus hortulanaPrunus hortulanaPrunus hortulanaPrunus hortulanaPrunus hortulanaPrunus hortulanaPrunus hortulanaPrunus hortulanaPrunus hortulanaPrunus hortulanaPrunus hortulanaPrunus hortulanaPrunus hortulanaPrunus hortulana
IOverview
Overview
Hog Plum (Prunus hortulana) is a tree or shrub native to the eastern United States, found in states like Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Massachusetts, and Michigan. Known for its edible fruit and documented medicinal uses, this plant thrives in full sun to partial shade with moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). Hardy from zones 5-9, it reaches a height of about 9 meters. Hog Plum is valued not only for its ornamental qualities but also for its edible flowers and fruit, which are often used in various culinary applications. One distinctive feature is its adaptability to different soil types, making it a versatile addition to gardens and landscapes.
Quick answers
What is Hog Plum?
Hog Plum (Prunus hortulana) is a tree or shrub native to the eastern United States, found in states like Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Massachusetts, and Michigan.
IV·bMixology suggestions
1 draft
Mixology suggestions
1 draftEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Hog Plum support blend
generaltea
AI returned a direct ingredient list; normalized into one draft blend for editorial review.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Hog Plum thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 5-9 and grows up to 9 meters tall, adapting well as a tree or shrub. For cultivation, ensure the plant has adequate moisture while providing it with the right type of soil for best growth. Propagate through seeds or by dividing established plants. The fruit and flowers are edible, making this plant both ornamental and useful in your garden.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
5-9
Habit
Tree, Shrub
Mature size
9.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Hog Plum for the first time
8steps
Start with planting Hog Plum in a sunny spot and follow these simple steps for success.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Hog Plum sapling, well-draining soil, and a garden fork.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring or late fall when the weather is cooler.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is light (sandy), medium, or heavy with good drainage. Amend as needed for better fertility.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant a young sapling from a nursery pot into your garden bed. Dig a hole twice as wide and deep as the root ball.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Mulch around the base to retain moisture.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun or partial shade, depending on local climate. Water deeply once a week during dry spells.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter before new growth starts to maintain shape and remove dead branches.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil without amending, not providing enough sunlight, and neglecting regular pruning.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FlowersFruitSeed
Edible uses: The Hog Plum's fruit is the primary edible part, often eaten raw or used in jams and preserves. The flowers can be made into a tea. Seeds are sometimes consumed as well but require proper preparation.
Other uses:DyeLumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
16 native · 1 introduced
Distribution
16 native · 1 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 16 native· 1 introduced
Broader regions
native:Massachusetts, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, Masachusettes, Nebraska, Ohio, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia, Arkansas
introduced:Maryland
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Rosaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Rosaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
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Growing zone
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