One of the most reliable European plums in Montana, Italian offers excellent flavor. This large, purple-skinned, freestone plum tastes super flavorful and very sweet when fully ripe. We wait until the frost gets them before harvesting, as it softens and sweetens the fruit.

Versatile Uses

Italian plums can be eaten fresh, dried, or cooked, making them a versatile addition to any garden or kitchen.

Cold Hardiness and Growing Zones

A vigorous and cold-hardy plum, Italian is perfect for Montana. It’s recommended for Zone 4 and can handle temperatures as low as -25°F (as we saw in Missoula on 1/13/24) without showing any signs of injury. Italian is hardy down to -40°F, making it a reliable choice for colder regions.

Self-Fertility and Pollination

Italian 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.

Tree Size and Rootstock

These trees are 5–7 ft. tall and are grafted onto semi-dwarf Lovell rootstock.