Pembina Plum vs American Bladdernut - TreeTime.ca

Pembina Plum vs American Bladdernut

Staphylea trifolia

Prunus nigra x salicina Pembina

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON - MIGHT RETURN

American Bladdernut
Pembina Plum

American Bladdernut is a fast-growing, ornamental shrub native to eastern North America. It can be grown as a large shrub or trained as a small tree. The small, drooping, white flowers are bell-shaped and grow in clusters. They appear in mid to late spring, attracting various pollinators. Well suited as an understory plant as it prefers shady and partial sun location with moist soils.

The blossoms mature into papery seed capsules and have been described as miniature Japanese lanterns. They are commonly used in dried flower arrangements. The seeds found within the pods are edible, and have a taste similar to pistachios. They can be eaten raw, used in baking or made into a sweet cooking oil.

Care should be taken when planting American Bladdernut, as it can spread quickly. It is prone to suckering and will self-seed. Plant the right tree in the right place.

Pembina Plum is one of the best-tasting plums that can be planted on the prairies. It is semi-freestone with orange flesh that is soft, juicy, and sweet which contrasts with the thick, sour, dark red skin. The plums can grow up to 5 cm in diameter and are well-suited for fresh eating, baking, and preserves.

They typically ripen in mid to late August and should be picked as soon as they are ripe. If left too long, the fruit will fall off the tree.

Pembina Plum is a hybrid between Canada Plum and Japanese Plum. For fruit production, it needs to be planted with another variety for cross-pollination. Canada Plum and American Plum are considered universal pollinizers.

American Bladdernut Quick Facts

Pembina Plum Quick Facts

Lowest Price: $54.99
Zone: 3a
Zone: 2b
Height: 4 m (12 ft)
Height: 4 m (14 ft)
Spread: 5 m (15 ft)
Spread: 3 m (10 ft)
Light: shade, partial shade
Light: partial shade, full sun
Moisture: normal, wet
Moisture: normal
Growth rate: medium
Growth rate: fast
Life span: long
Life span: medium
Suckering: medium
Suckering: medium


Fall colour: yellow to orange
Flowers: white
Flowers: white
Fruit: purple-red skin with yellow flesh
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: yes
Catkins: no
Catkins: no


Native to: ON, QC