What Are the Benefits of Red-leaved Plum?

Prunus cerasifera Ehrh., also known as Purple-leaved plum, features a beautiful glossy texture on its leaves. When growing amidst green foliage, it resembles a bouquet of ever-blooming flowers, creating a stunning visual landscape. It boasts significant ornamental value as well as certain edible qualities.

Prunus cerasifera Ehrh. typically exhibits a purple hue during its growth. It is often planted in buildings, gardens, parks, and lawns, offering excellent ornamental value. Its leaves are broad, and both sides of the leaf are purple-red. When in full bloom, the flowers are a delicate pink, and the fruits are a deep red. Although Prunus cerasifera Ehrh. does not often produce fruits, even if it does, the fruits are small in size. They are edible and contain rich nutrients.

Prunus cerasifera Ehrh. is rich in sugars, trace proteins, carotenoids, niacin, calcium, iron, phosphorus, asparagine, glutamic acid, threonine, alanine, proline, glycine, serine, vitamin C, vitamin B1, vitamin B2, and fats. It has various health benefits such as tonifying the middle and replenishing qi, lubricating the intestines and relieving constipation, quenching thirst, nourishing yin and promoting the production of saliva. It is particularly suitable for patients with symptoms such as palpitations, shortness of breath, amenorrhea, constipation, blood stasis and swelling, and emaciation. Wild Prunus cerasifera Ehrh. has even higher nutritional value. However, it should not be consumed when unripe as it can cause harm to the human body and lead to discomfort.

Prunus cerasifera Ehrh. prefers to grow in sunny and moist environments and has strong cold resistance. However, excessive humidity in its growing environment can affect its development. During the seedling stage, it prefers shady conditions, but as the plant grows, it prefers sunnier locations. Otherwise, it may have a negative impact on its growth.