Thundercloud Plum Tree

‘Thundercloud’ is a small ornamental flowering plum grown for its dark purple foliage and pink blossoms that appear before the leaves. Sources describe mature size differently: Oregon State University lists about 15–20 feet tall and wide, while NC State Extension gives about 25 feet in both dimensions. [Oregon State University](https://landscapeplants.oregonstate.edu/plants/prunus-cerasifera) · [NC State Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/prunus-cerasifera-thundercloud/) · [Missouri Botanical Garden](https://plantfinder.mobot.org/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d452) ## Garden use Plant in full sun to maintain the strongest purple leaf color; in partial shade, foliage may become greener. Its rounded canopy suits a specimen position, a flowering border, or a grouped screen where the seasonal flowers and dark leaves can be appreciated. The small plums are ornamental, and NC State describes this selection primarily as an ornamental rather than a fruit crop. Match available space to the larger published size estimate. ## Maintenance Provide moist but well-drained soil and water during establishment and prolonged dry weather. Prune just after flowering to maintain shape, since later cuts can remove next season’s flower buds. Watch for occasional aphids, leaf miners, cankers, or wilts, and remove damaged growth promptly.