{"title":"Plum Trees","description":"\u003cp\u003eOur plum trees range from well-known, long standing European plums such as Italian, to more recent cold climate bred European plums (Mount Royal and Northern Blue), hardy Japanese plums bred out of the Morden Research Breeding Station in Canada (Ptitsin #5), to the hardy hybrid plums (Japanese x Native American), including Underwood, Toka, Alderman, and many others.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"bensons-gem-plum","title":"Benson's Gem Plum","description":"\u003cp style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eThis is one of our first selections—an old, rare, and unique plum seedling found on Bruce Benson’s farm. The mother tree was given to Bruce (who is now in his 80s) by a woman in her 80s over 35 years ago. She grew the tree from seed, and when we asked Bruce what the fruit tasted like, he said, “It will burst with juiciness and get all over your shirt. Excellent flavor.” When we tried it, we couldn’t have agreed more.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eFlavor Profile\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eThe plum is indeed very juicy and has a strong berry flavor. It offers a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness—truly a standout.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eCold Hardiness and Rootstock\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eThese plums are hardy to at least -35°F, if not hardier. They are grafted onto Prairie Red and Native plum, which are both hardy down to at least -40°F.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"Prairie Red Full Size: 3-5 ft.","offer_id":45124805525570,"sku":null,"price":49.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Prairie Red Full Size: 5-7 ft. (Pruned to 5 ft for Shipping)","offer_id":45124805558338,"sku":null,"price":69.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Prunus americana Full Size: 3-4 ft.","offer_id":45124805591106,"sku":null,"price":44.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Prunus americana Full Size: 4-6 ft.","offer_id":45124805623874,"sku":null,"price":59.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/bensons-gem-plum-on-tree.webp?v=1789019191"},{"product_id":"italian-plum","title":"Italian Plum","description":"\u003ch3 data-start=\"84\" data-end=\"98\"\u003eOverview\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"99\" data-end=\"372\"\u003eOne of the most reliable European plums in Western Montana, Italian offers excellent flavor. This large, purple-skinned, freestone plum is super flavorful and very sweet when fully ripe. In Missoula, we wait until the frost gets them before harvesting, as it softens and sweetens the fruit. But don't do leave it on the tree for many consecutive evenings of frost because it will then become bland. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"374\" data-end=\"394\"\u003eVersatile Uses\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"395\" data-end=\"505\"\u003eItalian plums can be eaten fresh, dried, or cooked, making them a versatile addition to any garden or kitchen.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"507\" data-end=\"545\"\u003eCold Hardiness and Growing Zones\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"546\" data-end=\"833\"\u003eA vigorous and fairly cold-hardy plum, Italian is perfect for most areas in Western Montana, unless you're in one of the colder areas (i.e. Potomac). It’s recommended for Zone 4 and it survived -25°F in Missoula on 1\/13\/24 without showing any signs of injury. Italian's limit, however, in terms of absolute extreme winter low tolerance is likely to -35°F, possibly -40°F if planted in a good area free of frost pooling.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"835\" data-end=\"871\"\u003eSelf-Fertility and Pollination\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"872\" data-end=\"1127\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\"\u003eItalian is partially self-fertile and doesn’t require a pollenizer, though it may fruit more abundantly when planted alongside varieties like President, Stanley, Mirabelle de Bitterroot, or others. It will not cross-pollinate with Asian or American plums.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"Lovell Full Size: 4-6 ft. - One Year Older (Less Branching than 6-8 ft.) Pruned to 5 ft. for Shipping","offer_id":42751573327938,"sku":null,"price":74.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"Lovell Full Size: 6-8 ft. (One Year Older) Pruned to 5 ft. for shipping","offer_id":42499268542530,"sku":null,"price":109.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/italian-plum-on-tree.png?v=1789020347"},{"product_id":"mirabelle-de-bitterroot-plum-bundle-of-2","title":"Mirabelle de Bitterroot Plum (Bundle of 2)","description":"\u003ch3 data-start=\"4612\" data-end=\"4626\"\u003eOverview\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4627\" data-end=\"4948\"\u003eIf anyone has ever been to Europe and tried Mirabelle plums there, then the genetics of these plums are the most comparable, but specifically for cold-climate growers. The mother plants were discovered growing wild by Luke in the Bitterroot Mountains of Montana. He propagated them and named them Mirabelle de Bitterroot.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"4950\" data-end=\"4970\"\u003eFlavor Profile\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4971\" data-end=\"5121\"\u003eThe plums are roughly the same size as the French Mirabelles and have a very similar sweet, jammy flavor, with some subtle notes of apricot and honey.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"5123\" data-end=\"5143\"\u003eCold Hardiness\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"5144\" data-end=\"5351\"\u003eThese plums are hardy down to -35°F, if not even hardier. The mother trees of these roots have survived for over 60 years, enduring intense fall frosts, mid-winter lows, and the generally tough Montana cold.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"2-3 ft.","offer_id":42500879745090,"sku":null,"price":69.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"3-4 ft.","offer_id":42500879777858,"sku":null,"price":89.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"4-5 ft.","offer_id":42500879810626,"sku":null,"price":109.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"5-6 ft. (pruned to 5 ft. for shipping)","offer_id":42500879843394,"sku":null,"price":129.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/mirabelle-de-bitterroot-plum-on-tree.webp?v=1789020605"},{"product_id":"mount-royal-plum","title":"Mount Royal Plum","description":"\u003ch3\u003eOverview\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Royal plum has been a reliable European plum variety for northern growers. It is an upright to spreading tree with an open center and moderate vigor.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFlavor and Uses\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe light blue plums are juicy, semi-freestone, and have sweet flesh. They are excellent for fresh eating, okay for drying, and ripen in late August to early September.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCold Hardiness\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMount Royal has survived temperatures as low as -44°F in West Central MN and -42°F in Columbus, MT, proving its hardiness in extreme conditions. UPDATE FALL 2025: We just discovered that Mount Royal has survived and borne a consistent crop in Lodgepole, Montana at \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/agresearch.montana.edu\/warc\/research_current\/msu-ext-fruit-research-sites\/lodge_pole.html\"\u003eMSU's Lodgepole Fruit Research Site,\u003c\/a\u003e where it has gotten down to sub -45F temps.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eRootstock and Cold Tolerance\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur Mount Royal plums are grafted onto Native Plum and Prairie Red Plum, both of which are hardy to at least -50F. Native Plum is semi-dwarf in our MT climate\/soils, although we have found that there is some natural variation in size, as these plants are grown from seed. Prairie Red, meanwhile, exhibits less variation in size according to what Dan Sheild has observed at his site in MN.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"Native Plum Semi-Dwarf: 3-5 ft.","offer_id":42500896686146,"sku":null,"price":49.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Prairie Red Plum Semi-Dwarf: 3-5 ft.","offer_id":45134015365186,"sku":null,"price":49.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Native Plum Semi-Dwarf: 3-5 ft.(One Year Older) Pruned to 5 ft. for Shipping","offer_id":45134015397954,"sku":null,"price":59.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Prairie Red Plum Semi-Dwarf: 5-7 ft. (Pruned to 5 ft. for Shipping)","offer_id":45134015430722,"sku":null,"price":69.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Native Plum Semi-Dwarf: 5-7 ft.(Pruned to 5 ft. for Shipping)","offer_id":45134015463490,"sku":null,"price":69.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Native Plum Semi-Dwarf: 5-7 ft.(One Year Older) Pruned to 5 ft. for Shipping","offer_id":45134015496258,"sku":null,"price":89.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/mount-royal-plum-on-tree.webp?v=1789020641"},{"product_id":"native-american-plum-bundle-of-2","title":"Native American Plum (Bundle of 3)","description":"\u003ch3\u003eOverview\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Native American Plum produces fragrant, white flowers in showy, flat-topped clusters that appear before the leaves in spring. These blooms are tied with Linden for the best floral, perfumy blossom smell when in full bloom. Their scent is unreal.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eEdible Fruit\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe fruit that follows ripens to a shiny, bright red in August or September. It’s great fresh (if left to ripen longer on the tree), dried, or made into preserves.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGreat for Pollinators\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis tree will pollenize other Native American Plums, making it a perfect choice for creating a natural windbreak or attracting pollinators. Help support native pollinators with this addition to your landscape!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHardy and Adaptable\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHardy to zone 2.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePlant Size\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese trees are 3–5 ft. tall.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFull-size tree image (last photo) taken in Bozeman and courtesy of Matt Lavin.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42472438464578,"sku":null,"price":99.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/native-american-plum-fruit.webp?v=1789020641"},{"product_id":"pipestone-plum","title":"Pipestone Plum","description":"\u003ch3 style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eOverview\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003ePipestone was selected in 1928 and released in 1942 by the University of Minnesota Fruit Breeding Farm at Excelsior. Its parentage is Burbank, a Japanese plum (Prunus salicina), crossed with Wolf, a hardy native American plum. It belongs to the Japanese by American hybrid line Minnesota started in 1908, and no European plum is involved. Over 80 years later, people are still growing this hardy, tasty, yellow-fleshed plum.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eFlavor and Fruit Characteristics\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eWhen we tried Pipestone several years ago, we were taken aback at their size—most coming in slightly under 2\" in diameter. And their flavor was really good: sweet yellow flesh with slightly tart skin. They ripened in early September for us in Missoula.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eCold Hardiness\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eEven when some of the Italian plums in town—which are typically fairly hardy—had suffered tip damage, Pipestone didn’t show any signs of damage. We’ve seen Pipestone growing in places that can hit -38°F, like a cold part of Stevensville in the Bitterroot. There wasn’t any noticeable damage on the tree after it saw those temps on 1\/12\/2024.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eIn short, Pipestone is a super-productive, tasty plum that we know has survived down to -38°F. Some even list it as surviving down to -50°F, although we don’t have direct experience with that ourselves—we just haven’t seen any trees planted where it gets that cold.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eSpring 2027 Availability\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eThese plums come in several different rootstock\/sizes for Spring 2027. They are either on Native plum, which is likely slightly hardier, and tends to produce a semi-dwarf tree in our dry, alkaline soils and harsh climate. However, key word there is 'tends'. \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eWe have found that there is some natural variation in the size of Native Plum as a rootstock (and in general as a stand along tree) as these plants are grown from seed. However, the other rootstock we have grafted Pipestone onto is Prairie Red, which is far more uniform according to Dan Sheild, produces a semi-dwarf tree, and is hardy to around -50F.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"Prairie Red Semi-Dwarf: 3-5 ft.","offer_id":45134355464258,"sku":null,"price":59.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Prairie Red Semi-Dwarf: 5-7 ft. (Pruned to 5 ft. for Shipping)","offer_id":45134355497026,"sku":null,"price":69.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Native Plum Semi-Dwarf: 4-6 ft. (One Year Older)","offer_id":45134355529794,"sku":null,"price":74.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Native Plum Semi-Dwarf: 6-8 ft. (Pruned to 5 ft. for Shipping)","offer_id":42503442333762,"sku":null,"price":79.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Native Plum Semi-Dwarf: 6-7 ft. (One Year Older)","offer_id":45134355562562,"sku":null,"price":94.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/pipestone-plum-on-tree.webp?v=1789020829"},{"product_id":"prairie-red-plum-bundle-of-2","title":"Prairie Red Plum (Bundle of 2)","description":"\u003ch3 style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\" data-rte-preserve-empty=\"true\"\u003eOverview\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\" data-rte-preserve-empty=\"true\"\u003e\u003cem\u003ePrairie Red\u003c\/em\u003e plum is a hybrid, very cold-hardy, thicket-forming, small tree that reaches up to 15 feet in height. White flowers appear in early May, followed by larger, edible reddish-yellow to red fruit in late summer and fall.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\" data-rte-preserve-empty=\"true\"\u003eFruit Characteristics\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\" data-rte-preserve-empty=\"true\"\u003eThe plums are sweeter when left on the tree for longer and are fairly large in size (see photo).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\" data-rte-preserve-empty=\"true\"\u003eCold Hardiness and Uses\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\" data-rte-preserve-empty=\"true\"\u003e\u003cem\u003ePrairie Red\u003c\/em\u003e has survived cold temperatures in Montana and is widely planted on the prairies (in Canada, the Dakotas, and Eastern Montana) as a shelterbelt for wind. It serves the dual purpose of providing both wind protection and a fruit yield. We have also used \u003cem\u003ePrairie Red\u003c\/em\u003e as rootstock for grafting Asian-American hybrid plums.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\" data-rte-preserve-empty=\"true\"\u003eWildlife Benefits\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\" data-rte-preserve-empty=\"true\"\u003eThis tree provides good food and habitat for wildlife.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\" data-rte-preserve-empty=\"true\"\u003eCold Tolerance\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\" data-rte-preserve-empty=\"true\"\u003e\u003cem\u003ePrairie Red\u003c\/em\u003e is hardy to Zone 2 (-40°F or more). These trees are 3–5 ft. tall.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"3-5 ft.","offer_id":42535338311746,"sku":null,"price":74.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/prairie-red-plum-on-tree.webp?v=1789020829"},{"product_id":"tipson-plumcot","title":"Tipson Plumcot","description":"\u003ch3 style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eOverview\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eThis Plumcot was discovered as a natural cross on the property of our friend and fellow fruit grower, Doug Hawes-Davis, and then selected by Luke. Doug has one of the best food forests we’ve seen and has experimented with growing everything from apricots, peaches, and nectarines to pawpaw, persimmon, and more—with lots of success! Given that he plants lots of natives amongst his fruit trees, pollination is high, which likely contributed to the success of this cross.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eFlavor and Appearance\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\" class=\"\"\u003eThese plumcots will amaze you with their flavor. They’re sweet with a bit of tang. The skin color is a perfect blend of orange (from the apricot) and purple (from the plum). The skin also keeps a little of the apricot’s signature fuzziness. Honestly, these are the best plumcots we’ve tried.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eCold Hardiness and Ongoing Research\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\" class=\"\"\u003eThey may have Manchurian apricot in their ancestry, because they withstood -29°F on 1\/12\/24 at our friend David Stickler’s farm in Frenchtown, Montana. There was some minor tip dieback on the smallest-diameter new woody growth, so we suspect they may not survive -35°F or -40°F temps—but we don’t know yet! We’re still studying and learning about these, so folks who purchase will be part of an ongoing research effort to learn more about Tipson.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eSpring 2027 Availability\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\" class=\"\"\u003eGrafted onto \u003cstrong\u003eManchurian apricot.\u003c\/strong\u003e Manchurian is slightly hardier, capable of surviving below -40°F. Again, these trees are considered \u003cstrong\u003eexperimental below -30°F\u003c\/strong\u003e—they’ve handled -29°F with only light tip dieback, but lower-temperature performance remains untested.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"white-space: pre-wrap;\" class=\"\"\u003ePhoto Credit: Doug Hawes-Davis\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"Manchurian Full Size: 3-5 ft.","offer_id":42505253781570,"sku":null,"price":49.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"Manchurian Full Size: 4-6 ft.","offer_id":45140034093122,"sku":null,"price":59.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Manchurian Full Size: 5-7 ft.","offer_id":45140034125890,"sku":null,"price":69.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Manchurian Full Size: 6-8 ft.","offer_id":45140034158658,"sku":null,"price":79.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Manchurian Full Size: 6-8 ft. (One Year Older)","offer_id":45140034191426,"sku":null,"price":109.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/tipson-plumcot-harvest.webp?v=1789021268"},{"product_id":"black-ice-plum","title":"Black Ice Plum","description":"\u003ch3 data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"12\"\u003eOverview\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"14\" data-end=\"357\"\u003eBlack Ice is a hybrid plum that has proven itself in some of Montana’s harsher spots, including sites that have dropped to around –40°F. At Rod McIver’s place, which hit –38°F on January 12, 2024, his Black Ice trees came through with only minor tip damage—which is a pretty remarkable performance for a dessert-quality plum in that kind of cold.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"359\" data-end=\"381\"\u003eHistory \u0026amp; Breeding\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"383\" data-end=\"529\"\u003eBlack Ice was developed by Dr. Brian Smith at the University of Wisconsin–River Falls and released in the mid-2000s (around 2005–2006).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"531\" data-end=\"593\"\u003eAccording to info on its release, this complex plum hybrid was built to solve a specific problem:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cblockquote data-start=\"594\" data-end=\"718\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"596\" data-end=\"718\"\u003ecreate a “California-type” large, sweet Japanese-style plum that could still handle Upper Midwest \/ Zone 3 winters.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"720\" data-end=\"921\"\u003eGenetically, it combines Japanese plum (Prunus salicina) with hardy native Prunus (variously described as cherry plum or Western sandcherry), which is where it gets its excellent cold tolerance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1196\" data-end=\"1220\"\u003eTree Characteristics\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1224\" data-end=\"1306\"\u003eGrowth habit: Spreading, somewhat low and wide rather than tall and upright.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1309\" data-end=\"1410\"\u003eBearing: Precocious—comes into bearing early, often much sooner than older plum standards.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1413\" data-end=\"1498\"\u003eProductivity: Very productive when properly thinned; tends to set heavy crops.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1501\" data-end=\"1613\"\u003eFrost tolerance: Above-average bud and wood hardiness for a dessert plum, designed for cold-winter climates.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1615\" data-end=\"1647\"\u003eFruit Description \u0026amp; Ripening\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1651\" data-end=\"1798\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFruit: \u003c\/strong\u003eLarge, round to slightly oval, with dark purple-black skin and firm, sweet flesh—often described as “California-type” in quality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1801\" data-end=\"1950\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTexture \u0026amp; flavor:\u003c\/strong\u003e Firm but juicy, with rich, sweet dessert flavor. Often used primarily for fresh eating, but also suitable for preserves.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1953\" data-end=\"2103\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRipening:\u003c\/strong\u003e Early for a plum of this quality—around early August in many cold-climate locations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"2105\" data-end=\"2148\"\u003eCold Hardiness \u0026amp; Performance in Montana\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2150\" data-end=\"2316\"\u003eOn paper, Black Ice is marketed as hardy to about USDA Zone 3, which means survival in an area that sees -35°F on average across a 30 year spread. So the minimum extreme winter low that the tree can see is theoretically lower. Herein lies the issues, though with going off of the USDA hardiness map, which is that what the absolute extreme is that the tree can observe based on this 30 year average extreme is anyone's guess. So to be conservative, we are listing this at simply being able to withstand -38F with minor winter injury.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2318\" data-end=\"2331\"\u003eIn the field:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-start=\"2333\" data-end=\"2704\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"2333\" data-end=\"2472\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2335\" data-end=\"2472\"\u003eIt has been grown reliably in parts of Montana that see –35°F to –38°F as their extreme mid-winter cold, especially in favored microclimates with good air drainage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"2473\" data-end=\"2704\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2475\" data-end=\"2704\"\u003eAt Rod McIver’s site, where the temperature dropped to –38°F on January 12, 2024, his Black Ice trees came through with only minor tip damage\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"2473\" data-end=\"2704\"\u003eMontana Growers east of the divide who see temps sub –38°F should be cautious when growing Black Ice. This would likely only be areas in near Billings (Joliet, Bridger, Belfry, Red Lodge, Park City) and even the \u003cem\u003ewarmer microclimates\u003c\/em\u003e in those areas at that.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2706\" data-end=\"2786\"\u003eFor most growers in Western Montana, Black Ice is one of the better candidates if you want a true dessert-type plum (not just a wild American plum) and you still regularly see –30°F or colder in a bad winter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"2920\" data-end=\"2935\"\u003ePollination\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2937\" data-end=\"3006\"\u003eBlack Ice is not self-fruitful. It needs a compatible pollenizer:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-start=\"3008\" data-end=\"3146\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"3008\" data-end=\"3052\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3010\" data-end=\"3052\"\u003eRecommended pollenizers we carry: Toka, Underwood, Alderman, Hanska, Superior, and others\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"3053\" data-end=\"3146\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3055\" data-end=\"3146\"\u003eOther compatible hybrid or American plums can also work, as long as bloom times overlap.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"3053\" data-end=\"3146\"\u003ePollination chart coming soon if it isn't already on the site\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"Prairie Red Semi-Dwarf: 3-4 ft.","offer_id":45124836130882,"sku":null,"price":44.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"Prunus americana Semi-Dwarf: 4-6 ft. (Pruned to 5 ft. for Shipping)","offer_id":45124836163650,"sku":null,"price":59.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Prairie Red Semi-Dwarf: 4-6 ft. (Pruned to 5 ft. for Shipping)","offer_id":45124836196418,"sku":null,"price":59.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/black-ice-plum-fruit.jpg?v=1789019220"},{"product_id":"gracious-plum","title":"Gracious Plum","description":"\u003ch3 data-start=\"513\" data-end=\"810\"\u003eOverview\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"513\" data-end=\"810\"\u003eGracious Plum is a hardy Asian–American hybrid plum. It belongs in the category of hybrid plums bred and selected to combine improved fruit quality with reliable survival in very cold, continental climates where many standard plums struggle.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"513\" data-end=\"810\"\u003eOrigin \u0026amp; History\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"513\" data-end=\"810\"\u003eGracious Plum (originally labeled Mandan 41-15) was selected in 1957 at the Northern Great Plains Field Station in Mandan, North Dakota as part of cold-climate plum breeding work. It is an open-pollinated seedling of ‘Emerald’, making Emerald the confirmed seed parent; based on surrounding plantings and fruit characteristics, the pollen parent is believed to be ‘Red Wing’, though this was never formally controlled. Emerald itself comes from a cross of ‘Burbank’ (Japanese plum) × ‘Brittlewood’ (American plum), while Red Wing traces back to ‘Burbank’ × American plum ‘Wolf’, giving Gracious a deep blend of Japanese plum fruit quality layered over multiple generations of American plum hardiness. This complex lineage reflects the breeding goal behind Gracious: combining dessert-quality fruit with the resilience needed for northern Great Plains and similar cold continental climates.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"812\" data-end=\"838\"\u003eFruit Quality \u0026amp; Uses\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"839\" data-end=\"1192\"\u003eBased on how these hardy Asian–American hybrid plums are typically used in cold regions, Gracious is well suited for fresh eating when fully ripe and is also a strong choice for preserves, sauces, and other processing. As we get more direct fruit evaluations and ripening observations in Montana, we can refine flavor notes and best-use recommendations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1194\" data-end=\"1222\"\u003eGrowth Habit \u0026amp; Spacing\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1223\" data-end=\"1515\"\u003eAs a hardy Asian–American hybrid plum, Gracious is expected to grow as a medium-sized tree with a manageable canopy when pruned annually, especially when grafted onto native american plum rootstock, which is what we are offering for Spring 2027. A practical orchard spacing is typically in the 12–15 ft range, with wider spacing where airflow is a priority or where trees are expected to be vigorous.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1517\" data-end=\"1537\"\u003eCold Hardiness\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1538\" data-end=\"1836\"\u003eGracious is regarded as a cold-hardy selection appropriate for northern climates. Exact minimum survival temperatures and the most accurate zone ratings are not known yet in Montana, but given that Underwood, Alderman, and Pipestone have all survived -38F in Stevensville, MT, Gracious would likely be part of this ilk. Likely a solid zone 3b plum at the minimum, and even possibily 3a with protection\/in a good location (out of frost pooling\/depression, up on a bunch, good airflow, etc.).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1838\" data-end=\"1855\"\u003ePollination\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1856\" data-end=\"2104\"\u003eMost Asian–American hybrid plums benefit from cross-pollination with another compatible hybrid plum blooming at the same time. For best fruit set, plan on a second plum cultivar nearby unless you have confirmed self-fertility from a trusted source. Pollenizers for Gracious include Alderman, Black Ice, Pipestone, Underwood, Superior, (and others) as well Toka (often referred to as a universal pollenizer for the hybrid plums). Native and Prairie Red plums can also work as a pollenizer for Superior.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"Native Plum Semi-Dwarf: 3-5 ft. (One Year Older)","offer_id":42499184066626,"sku":null,"price":59.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Native Plum Semi-Dwarf: 6-8 ft. (One Year Older) Pruned to 5 ft for Shipping","offer_id":45131976245314,"sku":null,"price":109.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/gracious-plum-on-tree.jpg?v=1789020103"},{"product_id":"hanska-plum","title":"Hanska Plum","description":"\u003ch3\u003eOverview\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHanska is one of the classic Hansen hybrid plums developed specifically for the northern Great Plains. Released in 1908 by Dr. N.E. Hansen with South Dakota State, it belongs to the group of hardy Asian–American hybrid plums bred to combine improved fruit quality with the durability of native American plum genetics. Hansen's own account gives the parentage as a seedling of the wild Northwestern plum (Prunus americana) as the seed parent, pollenized by the apricot plum of China (Prunus simonii), so it is an americana by simonii hybrid rather than a Japanese plum cross. Hanska is commonly discussed alongside related Hansen hybrids such as Kaga and is part of the same broader breeding effort that eventually produced well-known plums like Toka. Its purpose from the outset was reliable performance in cold, continental climates. Here's a cool \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.sdpb.org\/rural-life-and-history\/niels-ebbeson-hansen-exploration-for-cultivation\"\u003earticle\u003c\/a\u003e on Hansen and his life's work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFruit Quality \u0026amp; Uses\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFrom the research literature and long-standing variety descriptions, Hanska produces medium-sized fruit with red skin and yellow flesh. The fruit is aromatic and firm, with flavor that improves as it fully ripens. It is considered an all-purpose plum, usable for fresh eating when ripe and especially well suited to cooking, preserves, sauces, and other processing where its flavor holds up well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCold Hardiness\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHanska is hardy to -40F, which is cited by Bob Purvis, and this matches our field observations in Western Montana, in which Hanska withstood -38F in Stevenville, on Jan. 12th 2024. Hanska will therefore do well  in the vast majority of Western Montana, apart from the coldest valleys, such as Potomac, which can get down to -50F. Hanska well  not do as well east of the divide where temps can drop below -40F in the winter, but should do survive in Billings and the surrounding warmer valleys, as well as areas that are up on a bench in eastern MT and out of frost pooling. In well-sited plantings with good cold-air drainage and proper fall hardening, it may even perform into colder microclimates than -40F, but there is no published evidence to support assigning a specific lower extreme temperature beyond a Zone 3 placement.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGrowth Habit \u0026amp; Spacing\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHanska grows as a vigorous hybrid plum tree rather than a dwarf. Trees develop a strong framework and should be given adequate room to mature. A practical spacing is about 12–16 feet between trees, with wider spacing (15–18 feet) improving airflow, access, and long-term ease of management. Regular pruning helps maintain structure and productivity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePollination\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHanska benefits from cross-pollination and should be planted with at least one other compatible hybrid plum that blooms at a similar time. As with most Asian–American hybrid plums, pollination improves fruit set and consistency compared to planting a single tree in isolation. Plant with Toka, Pipestone, Alderman, Underwood, or other asian-american hybrids. Native American plum and Prairie Red Plum can also work. Will not cross with European plums.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"Native Plum Semi-Dwarf: 5-7 ft. (One Year Older) Pruned to 5 ft. for Shipping","offer_id":42499185344578,"sku":null,"price":89.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/hanska-plum-on-tree.jpg?v=1789020103"},{"product_id":"kuban-delight-plum","title":"Kuban Delight Plum","description":"\u003ch3 data-start=\"342\" data-end=\"397\"\u003eBackground and Origin (from pomological literature)\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"399\" data-end=\"1089\"\u003eKuban Delight (often rendered from Russian as \u003cem data-start=\"449\" data-end=\"479\"\u003eKuban’skaya Rannyaya Delight\u003c\/em\u003e or similar trade translations) is a Russian plum selection associated with breeding work from the Kuban region of southern Russia, an area known for intensive Prunus breeding focused on flavor, early ripening, and productivity. In Russian pomological sources and nursery descriptions, Kuban-region plums are commonly described as dessert-quality selections, frequently involving complex hybrid backgrounds that may include Japanese plum (Prunus salicina) genetics and interspecific material, selected for improved flavor and appearance rather than extreme cold hardiness alone.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1091\" data-end=\"1348\"\u003ePublished Russian descriptions of Kuban Delight consistently emphasize early to mid-season ripening, attractive fruit coloration, and dessert use, placing it in a class of plums bred primarily for fresh eating quality rather than processing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1350\" data-end=\"1523\"\u003e\u003cem data-start=\"1350\" data-end=\"1523\"\u003e(Note: Russian sources typically provide qualitative descriptors—flavor class, fruit appearance, and use—rather than standardized quantitative datasets for this cultivar.)\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1530\" data-end=\"1549\"\u003eRipening Window\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1551\" data-end=\"1896\"\u003eIn Russian and Eastern European nursery literature, Kuban Delight is described as an early-ripening plum, generally maturing in mid to late summer depending on climate. This aligns with observed ripening in the northern Rocky Mountain region, where fruit reached peak eating quality by August 16th in 2020 under Kalispell, Montana conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1903\" data-end=\"1946\"\u003eFruit Characteristics (from literature)\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1948\" data-end=\"2019\"\u003eKuban Delight is described as producing medium to large plums with:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-start=\"2021\" data-end=\"2367\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"2021\" data-end=\"2099\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2023\" data-end=\"2099\"\u003eBright, attractive skin coloration, often with red to dark red tones\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"2100\" data-end=\"2241\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2102\" data-end=\"2241\"\u003eYellow flesh, sometimes showing red pigmentation bleeding inward from the skin, a trait commonly noted in high-flavor dessert plums\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"2242\" data-end=\"2367\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2244\" data-end=\"2367\"\u003eFlesh described in Russian sources as juicy, tender, and aromatic, intended primarily for fresh consumption\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2369\" data-end=\"2537\"\u003eRussian nursery descriptions frequently classify Kuban Delight as a “dessert plum”, a term reserved for cultivars considered superior in flavor balance and texture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"2544\" data-end=\"2575\"\u003eFlavor and Eating Quality\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2618\" data-end=\"2670\"\u003eFirsthand tasting notes (Luke Ruffner Robinson):\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2672\" data-end=\"2880\"\u003eWhen Luke first tasted Kuban Delight at peak ripeness on August 16, 2020, at \u003cspan class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"whitespace-normal\"\u003eRod McIver\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e’s farm in \u003cspan class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"whitespace-normal\"\u003eKalispell\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e, the fruit made a lasting impression:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cblockquote data-start=\"2882\" data-end=\"3187\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2884\" data-end=\"3187\"\u003e\u003cem data-start=\"2884\" data-end=\"3187\"\u003e“The flavor has a good sweetness with an excellent bit of tartness from the skin that is reminiscent of strawberry, blueberry, and raspberry. A very berry-flavored plum that is at once one of the best plums I’ve ever tried. And the flesh is yellow with red that has bled into the flesh from the skin.”\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3189\" data-end=\"3439\"\u003eThese observations align closely with how Russian pomology typically characterizes elite dessert plums: high aromatic complexity, balanced acidity, and skin-derived flavor intensity that contributes significantly to the eating experience.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"3446\" data-end=\"3480\"\u003eTree Growth and Productivity\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3519\" data-end=\"3594\"\u003eRussian nursery descriptions generally characterize Kuban Delight trees as:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-start=\"3596\" data-end=\"3735\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"3596\" data-end=\"3621\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3598\" data-end=\"3621\"\u003eModerately vigorous\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"3622\" data-end=\"3650\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3624\" data-end=\"3650\"\u003eProductive when mature\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"3651\" data-end=\"3735\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3653\" data-end=\"3735\"\u003eSuited to intensive orchard systems in regions with adequate heat accumulation\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3737\" data-end=\"3943\"\u003eGrower experience in Montana suggests the tree establishes well and fruits reliably once mature, though long-term yield data under extreme cold climates remains observational rather than formally published.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"3950\" data-end=\"3991\"\u003eWinter Hardiness and Cold Tolerance\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4034\" data-end=\"4198\"\u003eWhile Kuban Delight was not originally bred for ultra-cold continental climates, real-world grower experience in northwestern Montana provides valuable insight:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-start=\"4200\" data-end=\"4626\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"4200\" data-end=\"4325\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4202\" data-end=\"4325\"\u003eAt Rod McIver’s orchard in Kalispell, Kuban Delight has consistently survived harsh winters without chronic damage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"4326\" data-end=\"4539\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4328\" data-end=\"4539\"\u003eAlthough Kalispell is somewhat milder than other parts of Montana, the tree showed zero observable winter injury during the January 13, 2024 cold event, when temperatures reached approximately −35°F.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"4540\" data-end=\"4626\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4542\" data-end=\"4626\"\u003eNo cambial damage, bud loss, or structural injury was observed following that event.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"4540\" data-end=\"4626\"\u003eSolid zone 3b plum, with potentially minor damage in 3a. Possibly even harder to zone 2b with more winter damage, although this is guessing.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4628\" data-end=\"4796\"\u003eThis suggests that Kuban Delight may possess greater cold tolerance than expected for a dessert-focused plum, particularly when well established and properly sited.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"4803\" data-end=\"4814\"\u003eSummary\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4816\" data-end=\"4896\"\u003eKuban Delight is best understood as a high-flavor Russian dessert plum with:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-start=\"4898\" data-end=\"5221\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"4898\" data-end=\"4968\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4900\" data-end=\"4968\"\u003eDocumented fresh-eating quality emphasized in Russian literature\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"4969\" data-end=\"5029\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4971\" data-end=\"5029\"\u003eEarly to mid-August ripening in northern U.S. climates\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"5030\" data-end=\"5097\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"5032\" data-end=\"5097\"\u003eExceptional flavor complexity, confirmed by firsthand tasting\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"5098\" data-end=\"5221\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"5100\" data-end=\"5221\"\u003eBetter-than-expected winter performance under Montana conditions, including survival of near −35°F without injury. Solid zone 3b plum, with potentially minor damage in 3a. Possibly even hardier into zone 2 (-40F or colder) with more winter damage, although this is guessing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"5223\" data-end=\"5504\"\u003eWhile formal cold-hardiness trials comparable to Siberian or Ussurian plums are lacking, real-world orchard performance suggests Kuban Delight deserves serious consideration by cold-climate growers seeking elite flavor first, without sacrificing basic winter survivability.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"Native Plum Semi-Dwarf: 6-8 ft. (One Year Older) Pruned to 5 ft. for Shipping","offer_id":42500278288450,"sku":null,"price":109.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/kuban-delight-plum-cut.jpg?v=1789020420"},{"product_id":"la-crescent-plum","title":"La Crescent Plum","description":"\u003ch2 data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"19\"\u003eOverview\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"36\" data-end=\"268\"\u003eLa Crescent is a Japanese × American hybrid plum released by the University of Minnesota in the early 1920s. Its reported parentage is Prunus salicina ‘Shiro’ × Prunus americana ‘Howard Yellow’.  We have grown Shiro, which is one of the hardier Asian plums (although likely only to about -30F), but since Howard Yellow is a seedling of native american plum, this is where La Crescent gets its hardiness.\u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"270\" data-end=\"295\"\u003eHistory \u0026amp; Parentage\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"296\" data-end=\"529\"\u003eLa Crescent was introduced by the University of Minnesota (commonly dated to 1923) and is also sometimes sold under names like Golden La Crescent \/ Golden Minnesota. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"531\" data-end=\"557\"\u003eFruit Quality \u0026amp; Uses\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"558\" data-end=\"859\"\u003eLa Crescent is a thin-skinned yellow plum that can develop a pink blush, with tender, juicy yellow flesh and a sweet, aromatic flavor that is often compared to apricot-like notes. Bob Purvis pointed this out to Luke the first time he visited Bob's orchard in Homedale, ID back in 2022. It’s primarily used for fresh eating and preserving\/canning. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"861\" data-end=\"889\"\u003eGrowth Habit \u0026amp; Spacing\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"890\" data-end=\"1106\"\u003eIt’s growth habit is upright to spreading and vigorous. As a practical backyard spacing range, plan about 15 ft apart for trees on Native American rootstock (12 ft for tighter spacing\/more pruning), and 18 ft. for trees on Krymsk 86 (15 ft. for tighter spacing).\u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1108\" data-end=\"1125\"\u003ePollination\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1126\" data-end=\"1377\"\u003eLa Crescent needs a pollenizer. You can use Native American plum, Prairie Red Plum, or another Japanese x American hybrid that overlaps bloom (Toka, Pipestone, Underwood, or others).\u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1379\" data-end=\"1399\"\u003eCold Hardiness\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1400\" data-end=\"1791\"\u003eWe do not have a whole lot of first hand data on La Crescent because this is one of the newer plums we have grown, although knowing that when Bob Purvis lists the hardiness of plums he grows, which is from whom we got cuttings of La Crescent, he goes off of the same USDA zone scale of temperatures, but if he lists something as Zone 3a, which is the case for La Crescent, then he implies here that the plum is hardy to -40F. And given we have grown plenty of other Asian x American hybrids that do well down to these temps, i.e. Pipestone and Underwood surviving -38F in Stevensville, MT without any winter injury, I think \"hardy down to -40F\" for La Crescent tracks.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"Prairie Red Semi-Dwarf: 6-8 ft. (Pruned to 5 ft. for Shipping)","offer_id":43865971261506,"sku":null,"price":109.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Native Plum Semi-Dwarf: 6-8 ft. (One Year Older) Pruned to 5 ft. for Shipping","offer_id":42500337500226,"sku":null,"price":119.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/la-crescent-plum-on-tree.jpg?v=1789020421"},{"product_id":"ptitsin-5-plum","title":"Ptitsin #5 Plum","description":"\u003cp\u003e*New variety for us in Montana so all this info is second hand.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eOverview\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePtitsin #5 is an uncommon Japanese-type plum (\u003cem\u003ePrunus salicina\u003c\/em\u003e) that entered North American evaluation through early prairie and university fruit trials rather than commercial orchard channels. It is best known today through limited propagation among specialty nurseries and experimental growers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHistory \u0026amp; Background\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePtitsin #5 appears in North American horticultural records as a numbered selection distributed through the Morden Experiment Station in Manitoba, and it was received for evaluation by the University of Minnesota Fruit Breeding Farm in 1943. Like many numbered plums of this era, it was assessed for fruit quality and adaptability rather than released as a named commercial cultivar.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFruit Quality \u0026amp; Uses\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe fruit of Ptitsin #5 is small to medium, typically light yellow to yellow-green when ripe, and is freestone, which is unusual and valuable in very cold-hardy plums. Flavor is generally described as sweet with mild acidity, pleasant and balanced rather than sharp. The flesh is aromatic and suitable for fresh eating, while also performing well for preserves, jam, and drying.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnlike many ultra-hardy plums that are strictly “processing quality,” Ptitsin #5 is notable for being genuinely enjoyable fresh, especially when fully ripe.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eRipening Window\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePtitsin #5 typically ripens in early to mid-August in Zone 3 climates, making it an early-to-mid season plum. This earlier ripening window helps it mature reliably in regions with shorter summers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGrowth Habit \u0026amp; Spacing\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTrees are generally moderate in vigor with a balanced growth habit. They are not excessively large or unruly, making them manageable in small orchards. Standard plum spacing applies, typically 12–16 feet, with wider spacing on more vigorous rootstocks or in lower-input systems.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePollination\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePtitsin #5 is not reliably self-fertile and benefits from cross-pollination. Best results are achieved by planting it with another compatible hardy plum that blooms at a similar time, including Alderman, Kuban Delight, La Crescent, Pipestone, South Dakota, Superior, Uderwood, Toka, as well as Native American and Prairie Red plum.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCold Hardiness\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUPDATE: Our friend Bob Purvis reported to us in May 2026 that, during his visit to Mongolia that spring, Robert Berg’s Ptitsin #5, along with Brookgold, Brookred, Ivanovka, Rotova, and Northern Blue, had withstood temperatures as low as -50°F without damage to the blossom buds. \u003cspan style=\"font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003ePtitsin #5 should be good for most parts of Montana. If planted in Eastern MT, should do well in Billings and the warmer surrounding valleys. Anywhere else east of the divide could work if the tree is sited properly out of where frost puddles (upslope\/on a bench) and where there is good airflow. Solid zone 2 plum (possibly even hardier).\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhy We Value This Plum\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePtitsin #5 occupies a rare niche: a plum that is\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003egenuinely hardy, reliably productive, and pleasant to eat fresh, not merely a survival specimen. For growers pushing the limits of plum cultivation in cold climates, it represents one of the better-tested and more dependable options available.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"Prairie Red Semi-Dwarf: 4-5 ft.","offer_id":42503606534210,"sku":null,"price":54.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Native Plum Semi-Dwarf: 5-7 ft. (Pruned to 5 ft. for Shipping)","offer_id":42503606468674,"sku":null,"price":69.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Prairie Red Semi-Dwarf: 6-8 ft. (Pruned to 5 ft. for Shipping)","offer_id":45134398292034,"sku":null,"price":109.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/ptitsin-5-plum-on-tree.jpg?v=1789020871"},{"product_id":"south-dakota-plum","title":"South Dakota Plum","description":"\u003ch3\u003eOverview\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSouth Dakota plum is an extremely cold-hardy American plum selection valued for its toughness, dependable fruiting, and long history of use across the northern Great Plains. It produces small to medium plums with classic American plum character — highly aromatic, sweet-tart when fully ripe, and especially well suited for preserves, sauces, and fresh eating at peak ripeness. The tree is widely grown in cold continental climates where European and Japanese plums often fail and is also valued as a strong pollenizer for other hardy plums and Asian–American hybrid plums.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSouth Dakota plum belongs to the American plum species (Prunus americana), a native North American fruit species known for extreme cold tolerance, adaptability, and reliability in harsh environments.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eOrigin \u0026amp; History\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSouth Dakota plum is best understood as a named regional selection within the American plum species, originating from extremely cold regions of the northern Great Plains. It was selected from hardy native or seedling American plum populations growing in South Dakota for improved fruit quality and reliable production under severe winter conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAmerican plum itself is native to central and eastern North America and historically played a major role in early prairie horticulture. Native populations were widely used by Indigenous peoples and later selected by settlers and experiment stations for fruit production, shelterbelts, and hardy orchard plantings. Because American plums show significant variation when grown from seed, superior individuals were historically identified and propagated locally. South Dakota plum represents one of these hardy regional selections preserved through cultivation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe selection reflects a broader Great Plains tradition of fruit improvement focused on winter survival, adaptability, and dependable cropping rather than large commercial fruit size. American plum genetics also played an important role in early northern fruit breeding work, including programs in South Dakota, Minnesota, and the Canadian prairie provinces that sought to develop plums capable of surviving extreme continental winters.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFruit \u0026amp; Uses\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSouth Dakota plum produces small to medium round fruit with red to reddish skin and yellow flesh. The fruit has a strong sweet-tart flavor typical of American plums, with noticeable acidity balanced by sugars when fully ripe. Flavor is often highly aromatic and intense compared with many commercial plums.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe fruit is well suited for fresh eating when fully tree-ripened but is especially valued for preserves, jelly, sauce, fruit leather, and processing because the strong flavor carries well through cooking. Yields can be heavy under good growing conditions. Fruit typically ripens in late summer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGrowth Habit\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSouth Dakota plum grows as a small tree or large multi-stemmed shrub, typically reaching about 10–20 feet tall with a spreading habit. Like other American plums, it may produce root suckers and can form colonies or hedgerows if unmanaged.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTrees produce abundant white blossoms in early spring, often before leaf emergence, followed by summer fruit. The plant is vigorous and well adapted to wind exposure, drought, and variable soils.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSpacing\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor managed single-tree form, spacing of about 10–14 feet between trees is typical.\u003cbr\u003eIf grown in a more natural or thicket-form system, spacing of 16–20 feet or more allows for spreading growth and suckering.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePollination\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSouth Dakota plum is not self-fertile and requires cross-pollination from another compatible plum with overlapping bloom.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs an American plum type, it is compatible with other American plums and many cold-hardy Asian–American hybrid plums commonly grown in northern climates.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReliable pollenizers include:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNative American plum and Prairie Red plum, which share compatible genetics and bloom timing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAsian–American hybrid plums such as Toka, Black Ice, Hanska, Superior, Pipestone, Underwood, and Alderman. These hardy hybrid plums commonly overlap bloom with American plum types in cold climates and are widely planted together for reliable fruit set.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlanting at least two genetically distinct hardy plums within bee flight distance provides the most consistent pollination.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCold hardiness\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSouth Dakota plum was selected from extremely cold Great Plains conditions and is highly adapted to severe continental winters. Can survive temps into the -40s. Maybe not below -45F, though. As a selection of American plum, it is suited to very cold climates and performs reliably in northern orchard regions where winter survival is critical. Zone 2b.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eOther Notes\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAmerican plum types are valued not only for fruit production but also for ecological benefits including pollinator support, wildlife habitat, and ornamental spring bloom. The blooms are amazing in Montana in the Spring. Especially in Eastern Montana. Head out down 310 south of Billings in the Fromberg\/Bridger\/Belfry area towards the end of May and you'll see all the native american plums along the irrigation ditches in bloom. An incredible sight. Trees show strong adaptability to challenging conditions but may sucker and spread over time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSouth Dakota plum represents a traditional hardy prairie fruit selection emphasizing winter survival, strong productivity, and adaptability rather than large commercial fruit size, making it well suited to cold-climate orchard systems and homestead plantings.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"Native Plum Semi-Dwarf: 2-4 ft. (One Year Older)","offer_id":42504643510338,"sku":null,"price":49.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/south-dakota-plum-on-tree.jpg?v=1789021077"},{"product_id":"toka-plum","title":"Toka Plum","description":"\u003ch3\u003eOverview\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eToka is the classic “bubblegum plum,” a cold-climate hybrid plum known for its unusually aromatic, candy-sweet flavor and its value as a strong pollenizer in hardy plum plantings. It’s one of the most talked-about dessert-quality plums for colder regions because it brings standout flavor while still fitting into northern orchard systems.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eOrigin \u0026amp; History\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eToka was released in 1911 through the cold-climate breeding work associated with N.E. Hansen and the South Dakota program. It is a hybrid between the rugged native American plum and the highly aromatic Chinese “apricot plum” species Prunus simonii, bred specifically to combine hardiness with distinctive flavor.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFruit \u0026amp; Uses\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eToka fruits are typically small to medium and ripen in late summer, with a reputation for an intensely sweet, perfumed flavor that many growers describe as bubblegum-like. At peak ripeness it’s excellent for fresh eating, and it also performs well in jam, sauce, and preserves where that concentrated aroma carries through.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGrowth Habit\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eToka is described as forming a vase-shaped tree with a medium growth rate. Like many hardy hybrid plums, it can be quite productive when well pollinated, and good structure and occasional thinning help keep crops consistent and limbs healthy over time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSpacing\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe currently offer Toka on Native Plum and Prairie Red Plum Semi-Dwarf rootstock. On both of these semi-dwarf plum-type root system, a practical spacing is generally about 12–16 ft between trees depending on soil vigor, irrigation, and how much you plan to manage canopy size through pruning. The overall size of the trees will be less uniform for the native plum rootstocks, which is why we are also offering Prairie Red, which tend to be more uniform and max out closer to 15 ft. at maturity. Use wider spacing when you want simpler long-term maintenance and better airflow, and tighter spacing only when you are committed to regular size control.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePollination\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eToka is widely used as a pollenizer in hardy plum plantings and is commonly recommended as a partner that improves fruit set in other plums. Toka is effectively a universal pollenizer for all of the Asian x american hardy hybrid plums that we offer including Black Ice, Pipestone, Underwood, Superior, and others.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCold hardiness\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eToka is a solid Zone 3 plum. It has survived and done well with minimal winter injury at Montana State's Lodgepole location, which has seen -40F temps. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eOther Notes\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA key reason Toka has stayed famous for more than a century is that it combines real dessert appeal with utility: it’s repeatedly highlighted as a standout-flavor plum and also as a pollenizer workhorse in hardy plum orchards. On disease, Cummins Nursery reports strong resistance to black knot for Toka.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"Prairie Red Plum Semi-Dwarf: 3-5 ft.","offer_id":45140619067458,"sku":null,"price":49.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Native Plum Semi-Dwarf: 4-5 ft.","offer_id":45140619100226,"sku":null,"price":54.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Native Plum Semi-Dwarf: 5-7 ft.","offer_id":45140619132994,"sku":null,"price":69.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Prairie Red Plum Semi-Dwarf: 5-7 ft.","offer_id":45140619165762,"sku":null,"price":69.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Native Plum Semi-Dwarf: 5-7 ft. (One Year Older)","offer_id":42505253978178,"sku":null,"price":89.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/toka-plum-on-tree.png?v=1789021268"},{"product_id":"underwood-plum","title":"Underwood Plum","description":"\u003ch3\u003eOverview\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnderwood is a classic cold-climate hybrid plum known for dependable survival in relatively harsh winters and for producing attractive, flavorful fruit that works well for both fresh eating and processing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eOrigin and History\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnderwood is a University of Minnesota introduction from the early 1920s. According to the bilingual plum reference hosted at \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cyberfruit.info\/flipbook\/flipplum\/files\/basic-html\/page86.html\"\u003eCyberfruit\u003c\/a\u003e, it was introduced in 1921 by the University of Minnesota Fruit Breeding Farm (Excelsior, Minnesota) and is described as a hybrid-type plum derived from Shiro × Wyant. (\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cyberfruit.info\/flipbook\/flipplum\/files\/basic-html\/page86.html\" title=\"Page 86 - Our Plums - Les Pruniers de chez nous.pdf\"\u003ecyberfruit.info\u003c\/a\u003e)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnderwood sits in the “Japanese–American hybrid” category that many northern-region plum programs leaned on to combine improved fruit quality with the ruggedness of native North American plum species. (\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/extension.usu.edu\/yardandgarden\/research\/plums-in-the-home-garden\" title=\"How to Grow Plums in Your Home Garden | USU\"\u003eUtah State University Extension\u003c\/a\u003e)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFruit \u0026amp; Uses\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnderwood fruit is large for a hardy hybrid plum, with dark red skin and yellow flesh. The fruit is juicy, melting, and tender, ripening around mid-August in Missoula, and it also holds well in cold storage.\u003cbr\u003eIn practice, Underwood can be enjoyed fresh when fully ripe, but it also (apparently) works well in sauce, jam, fruit leather, baking, and fermentation, although we have only ever eaten it fresh.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGrowth Habit \u0026amp; Spacing\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnderwood grows as a medium-sized plum tree rather than a true dwarf. \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThese Underwood plum trees come in several different rootstock\/sizes for Spring 2027. They are either on Native plum, which is likely slightly hardier, and tends to produce a semi-dwarf tree in our dry, alkaline soils and harsh climate. However, key word there is 'tends'. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWe have found that there is some natural variation in the size of Native Plum as a rootstock (and in general as a stand along tree) as these plants are grown from seed. However, the other rootstock we have grafted Underwood onto is Prairie Red, which is far more uniform according to Dan Sheild, produces a semi-dwarf tree (roughly 15 ft. at maturity or slightly larger in deeper soils), and is hardy to around -50F.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs with many hardy hybrid plums, good air drainage matters because hybrid plums bloom early (right after peaches) and can be more “spring-frost limited” than “midwinter-cold limited” on marginal sites.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePollination\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnderwood is not a “plant-one-tree-and-forget-it” plum in most climates. It needs a compatible hybrid plum nearby for consistent fruit set. Pollenizers for Underwood include Alderman, Pipestone, Hanska, and Gracious, Toka, Kuban Delight, Ptitsin #5, La Crescent, Superior, and other Asian–American hybrids. Native American plum and Prairie Red can work as pollenizers for these hybrid types as well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCold Hardiness\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe have observed Underwood surviving -38F in Stevensville, MT from a 1\/13\/24 polar front without showing any signs of winter injury. St. Lawrence lists Underwood as hardy to -50F with occasional winter injury. Because we cannot verify this claim in our experience, we are conservatively saying Underwood is hardy to -40F. Hardy to zone 3a. \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"Native Plum Plum Semi-Dwarf: 5-6 ft. (Pruned to 5 ft. for Shipping)","offer_id":42508244353090,"sku":null,"price":64.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Prairie Red Plum Semi-Dwarf: 5-7 ft. (Pruned to 5 ft. for Shipping)","offer_id":42508244320322,"sku":null,"price":69.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Native Plum Semi-Dwarf: 4-6 ft. (1 Year Older) Pruned to 5 ft. for Shipping","offer_id":45143186440258,"sku":null,"price":74.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Native Plum Semi-Dwarf: 6-8 ft. (1 Year Older) Pruned to 5 ft. for Shipping","offer_id":45143186473026,"sku":null,"price":109.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/underwood-plum-on-tree.jpg?v=1789021308"},{"product_id":"superior-plum","title":"Superior Plum","description":"\u003ch3\u003eOverview\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuperior Plum is a cold-hardy hybrid plum developed specifically to bring improved fruit quality into colder regions where pure Japanese plums often struggle. Remains one of the better-known Japanese–American hybrids for northern plantings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eOrigin \u0026amp; History\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuperior Plum was bred by University of Minnesota in 1933 from a cross of ‘Burbank’ × ‘Kaga’.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e‘Burbank’ is a Japanese plum (Prunus salicina), while Kaga’ is itself an interspecific hybrid derived from Prunus americana × Prunus simonii.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis makes Superior a complex hybrid combining Japanese plum genetics with American plum and Simon plum ancestry. The breeding goal was to capture the fruit quality of Japanese plums while incorporating the cold tolerance and resilience of American plum material. Because of this background, Superior is often broadly described as a Japanese × American hybrid, but its exact pedigree is more accurately represented as:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBurbank × (americana × simonii).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuperior has been planted in colder regions for decades as part of early efforts to expand reliable plum production beyond traditional Japanese plum climates. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFruit \u0026amp; Uses\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuperior produces red-skinned plums with yellow flesh. The fruit is sweet and suitable for fresh eating, while also working well for preserves, baking, jams, and other kitchen uses. It is generally grown as a dual-purpose plum: enjoyable fresh when fully ripe and practical for processing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGrowth Habit and Spacing\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe offer Superior on Native Plum and Prairie Red Plum semi-dwarf rootstock. Although these are both seedling rootstocks, Superior should be expected to mature as a moderately sized tree rather than a full standard tree. Native plum can be more dwarfing at times (given their seedling nature), but from our initial test results, Prairie Red seems to be a more consistently sized semi-dwarf, reaching about 15 ft tall at maturity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA planting spacing range is about 12–15 feet between trees, depending on pruning intensity and desired canopy size. Wider spacing supports airflow and light penetration; tighter spacing requires more active canopy management.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePollination\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuperior Plum is not self-fertile and requires another plum nearby to act as a pollenizer for reliable fruit set. Plant with other hybrid plums that we offer, including Alderman, Black Ice, Pipestone, Underwood, Gracious, as well Toka (often referred to as a universal pollenizer for the hybrid plums). Native and Prairie Red plums can also work as a pollenizer for Superior.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCold hardiness\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOften listed as a hardy plum, exact minimum survival temperatures and the most accurate zone ratings are not known yet in Montana, but given that Underwood, Alderman, and Pipestone have all survived -38F in Stevensville, MT, Superior would likely be part of this ilk. Likely a solid zone 3b plum at the minimum, and even possibly 3a with protection\/in a good location (out of frost pooling\/depression, up on a bunch, good airflow, etc.).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eOther Notes\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuperior’s value lies in its breeding: it represents an early and successful attempt to merge Japanese plum fruit quality with American plum toughness. This mixed ancestry is what allows it to function in colder regions where many Japanese plums fail.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe are unsure of Superior's disease resistance in Montana, given we have only been growing it for a few years. As with most plums, long-term success depends primarily on site selection, spacing, pruning for airflow, and orchard sanitation to manage common stone-fruit diseases such as bacterial canker and brown rot.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"Native Plum Semi-Dwarf: 3-5 ft. (1 yr. older)","offer_id":45135359148098,"sku":null,"price":59.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Native Plum Semi-Dwarf: 5-6 ft. (1 yr. older) Pruned to 5 ft. for Shipping","offer_id":42505024176194,"sku":null,"price":84.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Prairie Red Semi-Dwarf: 3-5 ft.","offer_id":45135359180866,"sku":null,"price":49.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Prairie Red Semi-Dwarf: 5-7 ft. (Pruned to 5 ft. for Shipping)","offer_id":45135359213634,"sku":null,"price":69.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/superior-plum-harvest-in-hand.jpg?v=1789021268"},{"product_id":"brookgold-plum","title":"Brookgold Plum","description":"\u003cp\u003eNew Variety. One of the hardiest plums out there. Description Coming Soon!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:12px;color:#777;margin-top:24px\"\u003eRepresentative photo of yellow plums on the tree, not Brookgold itself. Photo credit: “Prunus domestica. Cirolal (frutu variedá mirabel)” by SABENCIA Guillermo César Ruiz, via \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Prunus_domestica._Cirolal_(frutu_varied%C3%A1_mirabel).jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"\u003eWikimedia Commons\u003c\/a\u003e, licensed under \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/4.0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"\u003eCC BY-SA 4.0\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"Prairie Red Plum Semi-Dwarf: 4-6 ft. (Pruned to 5 ft. for Shipping)","offer_id":45177625444418,"sku":null,"price":59.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Prairie Red Plum Semi-Dwarf: 6-7 ft. (Pruned to 5 ft. for Shipping)","offer_id":45177625477186,"sku":null,"price":74.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/brookgold-plum-representative-yellow-plums.jpg?v=1790130543"},{"product_id":"brookred-plum","title":"Brookred Plum","description":"\u003cp\u003eNew Variety. One of the hardiest plums known. Description Coming Soon!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:12px;color:#777;margin-top:24px\"\u003eRepresentative photo of red Japanese hybrid plums, not Brookred itself. Photo credit: “Starr-090513-7615-Prunus cerasifera x salicina-fruit-Polipoli-Maui (24324235954)” by Forest and Kim Starr, via \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Starr-090513-7615-Prunus_cerasifera_x_salicina-fruit-Polipoli-Maui_(24324235954).jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"\u003eWikimedia Commons\u003c\/a\u003e, licensed under \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/3.0\/us\/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"\u003eCC BY 3.0 US\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"Prairie Red Plum Semi-Dwarf: 4-6 ft. (Pruned to 5 ft. for Shipping)","offer_id":45177627344962,"sku":null,"price":59.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"Prairie Red Plum Semi-Dwarf: 6-7 ft. (Pruned to 5 ft. for Shipping)","offer_id":45177627377730,"sku":null,"price":74.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/brookred-plum-representative-red-hybrid-plums.jpg?v=1790130543"},{"product_id":"deluge-plum","title":"Deluge Plum","description":"\u003cp\u003eNew Variety. Local Missoula landrace. This is the best tasting of those ilk. Discovered by James Sapp and selected by Luke Ruffner Robinson. More description coming soon!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"Prairie Red Plum Semi-Dwarf: 4-6 ft. (Pruned to 5 ft. for Shipping)","offer_id":45177628786754,"sku":null,"price":59.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Prairie Red Plum Semi-Dwarf: 6-8 ft. (Pruned to 5 ft. for Shipping)","offer_id":45177628819522,"sku":null,"price":79.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/deluge-plum-harvest.jpg?v=1789019844"},{"product_id":"kaga-plum","title":"Kaga Plum","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis is our first year growing Kaga, so everything below is secondhand until we get more long-term data from our own mother trees.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eOverview\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKaga is one of N.E. Hansen's old South Dakota hybrid plums. Bob Purvis calls it an \"excellent pollenizer for other hybrid plums,\" and that's the main reason to plant it, though the fruit is good for preserves too.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eOrigin and History\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHansen bred Kaga at the South Dakota Agricultural Experiment Station from the same parents as Hanska: a wild northwestern American plum (Prunus americana) crossed with Prunus simonii, the apricot plum of China. Hansen gave the introduction year as 1909, and Hedrick's The Plums of New York (1911) says 1910. According to Hansen, the name is Sioux for \"pitch a tent.\" He wrote that Kaga and Hanska were \"much alike in fruit and rapidity of growth,\" but \"many prefer the Kaga as a better annual bearer than Hanska.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFruit and Uses\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBob Purvis describes the fruit as \"small to medium, bluish-black, very meaty, best used in preserves,\" ripening in early September in east-central Minnesota. Hansen described Hanska as bright red with a heavy blue bloom and said Kaga's fruit was much like it, so the color may vary with who's describing it. This is a plum for jam, sauce and cooking more than for eating out of hand.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGrowth Habit and Spacing\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePurvis calls the tree small with a compact growth habit. Ours are on Prairie Red plum semi-dwarf rootstock, which is more uniform than native plum and tends to top out around 15 feet here. Plan on 12 to 15 feet between trees.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePollination\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKaga needs a pollenizer itself, and it's a good one for other hybrid plums. Hansen wrote that plums \"do best in mixed orchards of several varieties.\" Toka, South Dakota, Native American Plum, Kahinta, Superior and Black Ice all work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCold Hardiness\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe haven't found a documented survival temperature for Kaga itself. W.T. Macoun listed it among the promising Hansen hybrids for southern Manitoba, and Purvis fruits it in east-central Minnesota. Its sister Hanska, from the same cross, came through -38F in Stevensville on January 12, 2024. We've listed Kaga at zone 3.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:12px;color:#777;margin-top:24px\"\u003eRepresentative illustration, not Kaga itself: Hanska, Kaga's sister seedling from the same cross. Hansen said Kaga's fruit was much like it. Illustration: “Hanska” by Elsie Lower Pomeroy, USDA Pomological Watercolor Collection, Rare and Special Collections, National Agricultural Library (\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/hdl.handle.net\/10113\/POM00004907\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"\u003ePOM00004907\u003c\/a\u003e). Public domain. Cropped from the original.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"Prairie Red Plum Semi-Dwarf: 4-5 ft.","offer_id":45177785811010,"sku":null,"price":54.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Prairie Red Plum Semi-Dwarf: 5-7 ft. (Pruned to 5 ft. for Shipping)","offer_id":45177785843778,"sku":null,"price":69.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/kaga-plum-representative-hanska-watercolor.jpg?v=1790130543"},{"product_id":"kahinta-plum","title":"Kahinta Plum","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis is our first year growing Kahinta, so everything below is secondhand until we get more long-term data from our own mother trees.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eOverview\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKahinta is another of N.E. Hansen's South Dakota hybrid plums. It's a dark red plum with yellow-orange flesh, it's good fresh, and like Kaga it's a good pollenizer for other hybrid plums.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eOrigin and History\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHansen introduced Kahinta in 1912. It's a cross of Luther Burbank's Japanese plum Apple with Terry, a native American plum raised by H.A. Terry of Crescent, Iowa. Hansen said the name is Sioux for \"sweep.\" It's a sister seedling of Waneta and Tawena, and Hansen put the quality of all three as \"approximating that of the peach in excellence.\" He also noted Kahinta was the heaviest plum on the grounds during the very dry season of 1911, at about an ounce each.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFruit and Uses\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHansen described it as an inch and a half across, dark red and roundish, with firm, sweet, yellow flesh. Fedco calls the skin \"brilliant red-purple\" and tart and the flesh \"translucent yellow-orange tart but quite flavorful,\" says it peels easily, and rates it very good for fresh eating or canning. Bob Purvis says it keeps well in the fridge, has been well accepted at farmers' markets in Idaho, and ripens early to mid September there. Hansen called it a freestone, but Fedco and Purvis both say clingstone.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGrowth Habit and Spacing\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePurvis and Fedco both describe a spreading tree, and Fedco says it \"bears more reliably than most other varieties in our orchard.\" Ours are on Prairie Red plum semi-dwarf rootstock, which is more uniform than native plum and tends to top out around 15 feet here. Plan on 12 to 15 feet between trees.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePollination\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKahinta needs another plum to set fruit, and Purvis calls it a \"good pollenizer for other hybrid plums.\" Toka, South Dakota, Native American Plum, Kaga, Superior and Black Ice all work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCold Hardiness\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFedco rates Kahinta zone 3. We haven't found a documented survival temperature yet. We've listed it at zone 3 and will update it once we've wintered our own trees.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:12px;color:#777;margin-top:24px\"\u003eRepresentative photo of dark red hybrid plums on the tree, not Kahinta itself. Photo credit: “Starr-090513-7614-Prunus cerasifera x salicina-ripe fruit-Polipoli-Maui (24861513911)” by Forest and Kim Starr, via \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Starr-090513-7614-Prunus_cerasifera_x_salicina-ripe_fruit-Polipoli-Maui_(24861513911).jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"\u003eWikimedia Commons\u003c\/a\u003e, licensed under \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/3.0\/us\/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"\u003eCC BY 3.0 US\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"Prairie Red Plum Semi-Dwarf: 6-8 ft. (Pruned to 5 ft. for Shipping)","offer_id":45177790758978,"sku":null,"price":79.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/kahinta-plum-representative-red-plums-on-tree.jpg?v=1790130543"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/collections\/Florence_Plum_Seedling_Montana_Fruit_Tree_Co.jpg?v=1760827370","url":"https:\/\/www.montanafruittrees.com\/collections\/plum-trees\/plumcot-tree.oembed","provider":"Montana Fruit Trees","version":"1.0","type":"link"}