Prunus triloba, commonly known as Flowering Plum or Flowering Almond, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to China and Korea, particularly in regions with temperate climates, such as slopes and thickets. It typically grows to a height and width of 10-15 feet (3-4.6 meters), presenting a rounded form. The plant is renowned for its profuse display of double pink flowers that bloom in early to mid-spring, creating a spectacular floral show. The flowers are highly ornamental and are among the first to appear in the spring garden, often before the leaves emerge. The bark is smooth and gray, and although the plant may produce small, inedible fruit, it is primarily grown for its flowers.

The Flowering Plum is valued for its stunning spring blossoms and is widely used in ornamental plantings, including urban landscapes, foundation plantings, and as a specimen plant. It is adaptable to a range of soil types, provided they are well-drained, and it thrives in full sun to part shade. While it requires medium amounts of water, it is relatively low maintenance once established. The most popular garden cultivar is Prunus triloba ’Multiplex’, also known as the ’Rose Tree of China’, which is cherished for its double pink blooms. Potential problems include susceptibility to diseases such as shot hole fungus and pests like aphids. Gardeners should be aware that this plant can sucker and may require pruning to maintain a tidy appearance. It is not known to be invasive outside its native range.CC BY-SA 4.0