Eastern Redbud vs Opata Cherry Plum - TreeTime.ca

Eastern Redbud vs Opata Cherry Plum

Cercis canadensis

Prunus besseyi x salicina Opata

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON

(new stock expected: fall of 2026)

Eastern Redbud
Opata Cherry Plum

The Eastern Redbud is known for the pea-like pink buds that emerge in clusters on the bark, embellishing the tree in stunning flowers. They have a longer bloom time, sometimes for two to three weeks before the heart-shaped leaves emerge for the summer. Inedible pods emerge that turn brown in the summer, this tree is a part of the bean family.

Native to the Eastern North America. The Eastern Redbud can tolerate acidic and alkaline soil. Plant this as a beautiful understory species or shaded residential yard or garden. The bright pop of color will make an attractive ornamental tree.

Opata Cherry Plum is considered to be one of the best tasting Cherry Plum varieties. It has a pleasant, sweet flavour and a hint of acidity. They ripen in mid to late August and are well suited to fresh eating, baking, and preserves.

The fruit is closer to a plum than a cherry but is smaller than most plums.The Opata Cherry Plum’s skin is red/green whereas the flesh is yellow-green. The flesh is freestone with a juicy, firm texture. Similar to other stone fruits, it does not store for very long.

The Opata Cherry Plum is a hybrid between a Western Sand Cherry and a Japanese (Chinese) Plum. For fruit production, it needs to be planted with another variety for cross-pollination. Canada Plum and American Plum are considered universal pollinizers.

Eastern Redbud Quick Facts

Opata Cherry Plum Quick Facts

Lowest Price: $10.99 - SAVE UP TO 42%
Zone: 4a
Zone: 2a
Height: 8 m (25 ft)
Height: 2.4 m (8 ft)
Spread: 9 m (30 ft)
Spread: 2.1 m (7 ft)
Moisture: dry, normal
Moisture: normal
Light: partial shade, full sun
Light: full sun
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: no
Catkins: no
Fruit size: 3 cm in diameter
Flavor: pleasant and sweet, hint of acidity
Harvest: mid to late August
Flowers: rose-purple, pea-like
Growth rate: medium
Growth rate: medium
Life span: long
Life span: short
Maintenance: medium
Suckering: high
Suckering: medium




Other Names: judas tree
Other Names: opata chum, opata plum cherry