Prunus
The plum tree (Prunus) is one of the world’s oldest domesticated fruits, boasting a geographically diverse lineage that spans the globe. While the European plum (Prunus domestica) likely emerged near the Caucasus Mountains as a natural hybrid over 2,000 years ago, the Asian plum (Prunus salicina) originated in China, and the hardy Prunus americana is native to North America. Today, these trees are cultivated in USDA Zones 4–9, where they thrive in well-drained, loamy soil and full sun. Cultivation needs vary by species; European varieties are often self-fertile and ideal for drying into prunes, whereas the juicier Japanese varieties usually require cross-pollination. Whether maintained as a sprawling shrub or a pruned orchard tree, the plum remains a prolific producer and a staple of human agriculture. Cheers
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