Satsuma Plum Fruit Tree

Satsuma is an early-blooming Japanese plum known for juicy, deep-red flesh and a rich flavor. Its fruit is semi-freestone, and the cultivar needs about 300 chill hours; another Japanese plum can improve production ([UC Davis Foundation Plant Services](https://fps.ucdavis.edu/treedetails.cfm?v=1349)). ## Fruit and Pollination The rounded fruit ripens from late July into August, with timing varying by location. “Blood Plum Satsuma” and “Blood Plum of Satsuma” are recorded alternate names. Satsuma is partly self-compatible, so planting a compatible Japanese plum nearby can help set a fuller crop. ## Site and Size Grow in full sun with balanced moisture. Dwarf, semi-dwarf, and standard rootstocks produce different mature sizes, so confirm the rootstock when planning spacing ([Burnt Ridge Nursery](https://www.burntridgenursery.com/SATSUMA-PLUM-Prunus-salicina/productinfo/NSPLSAT/)). The cultivar is offered for USDA zones 6–9. ## Maintenance Keep grass and weeds from competing around the root zone and top-dress with compost if needed. Summer pruning can open the canopy for airflow and make harvest easier. Water deeply during dry spells, especially while young.