Italian Plum Tree

About the Italian Plum Tree

The Italian Plum Tree (Prunus domestica ‘Italian’) is world-renowned for its reliability and productivity, producing heavy crops of dark purple, medium-sized freestone plums. These sweet, high-sugar fruits are commonly dried to make prunes and are also known as Italian Prune, Italian Prune Plum, or Fellenberg Plum.

This popular European plum variety is a long-time favorite in home orchards across the U.S. and thrives in a wide range of climates. The tree blooms in spring with showy pinkish-white flowers, adding ornamental value before the delicious fruit ripens in late summer to early fall (typically August or September).

Each plum has smooth, deep purple skin with a soft blue bloom. Inside, the semi-firm golden-yellow flesh delivers a rich sweetness balanced by a subtle lemony tang—distinctly more complex than most common plums.

Using the Fruit

Italian Plums are freestone, making them easy to pit and perfect for both fresh eating and culinary use. Their firm texture holds up beautifully when cooked or baked.

These plums are a staple in German and Eastern European recipes, ideal for:

• Plum cakes, dumplings, and tarts
• Homemade jams, preserves, and juices
• Drying into prunes
• Roasting with pork or lamb
• Desserts like plum sorbet or poached plums

The yellow flesh turns a rich, rosy hue when cooked, making for both beautiful and flavorful dishes. Italian plums are also a great source of fiber, potassium, and vitamins A, C, and K.

Growing Italian Plum Trees

Italian Plum trees are vigorous, cold-hardy, and self-pollinating, making them easy to grow—even for beginners. With proper care, they typically begin bearing fruit within 3 to 6 years after planting.

• Best grown in full sun
• Suitable for USDA Zones 4–9
• Annual pruning recommended for optimal fruit production
• Moderate size makes them manageable for most backyards

Whether you’re planting one or a small grove, this tree rewards growers with exceptional fruit and seasonal beauty.

Buy an easy-to-grow Italian Plum tree to enjoy delicious, sweet plums fresh from your own yard!