Overview & Description

Western Sand Cherry (Prunus besseyi) is a hardy, sprawling native deciduous shrub prized for its tough, adaptable nature and multi-season interest. In spring, a blanket of single white blooms covers the plant, followed by purple-black ornamental fruit in late summer. Its leathery, grey-green foliage provides a soft, textured appearance throughout the growing season. This versatile shrub can also be used as a pollinator for plums.

Growth & Size

This variety exhibits a sprawling, spreading, low-growing growth habit. It is a moderate-growing shrub, typically reaching a mature size of about 5 feet in both height and spread.

Additional Notes

It blooms in spring, with fruit ripening in late summer. Hardy to Zone 2, it tolerates hot, dry conditions once established and prefers well-drained soil. An outstanding choice for naturalized areas, slopes, mass plantings, wildlife gardens, and as a plum pollinator where white spring blooms, purple-black fruit, grey-green foliage, and drought tolerance are desired.