You can definitely eat the fruit from a purple leaf plum tree. Despite being commonly regarded as ornamental trees, not all purple leaf plum trees are purely decorative. Some varieties of these trees actually produce small, edible plums. These unique plums are often referred to as cherry plums, as they are slightly larger than cherries in size.
The fruit of purple leaf plum trees is typically small, round, and has a deep purple or dark red skin. They have a sweet and tangy flavor, making them enjoyable to eat fresh or use in various culinary applications. While they may not be as commonly consumed as other types of plums, they can still be a delicious and unique addition to your diet.
It’s worth noting that not all purple leaf plum trees bear fruit. Some varieties are bred primarily for their ornamental value and do not produce edible plums. If you’re specifically interested in growing purple leaf plum trees for their fruit, it’s important to choose a variety that is known to be fruitful.
When it comes to harvesting the fruit from purple leaf plum trees, it’s best to wait until they are fully ripe. Ripe plums will have a slightly soft texture and will easily detach from the tree when gently twisted or pulled. You can also look for a dark, rich color as an indicator of ripeness. If the plums are still firm and not fully ripe, you can leave them on the tree for a bit longer to allow them to mature.
Once you’ve harvested the plums, there are numerous ways to enjoy them. You can simply eat them fresh as a healthy snack or incorporate them into various dishes. They can be used in desserts like pies, tarts, or jams. They can also be used in savory dishes, such as salads or sauces for meats. The sweet and tangy flavor of purple leaf plums adds a unique twist to any recipe.
It’s important to note that while the fruit of purple leaf plum trees is generally safe to eat, it’s always a good idea to wash them thoroughly before consumption. This helps remove any potential dirt, debris, or pesticides that may be present on the skin.
Purple leaf plum trees can indeed produce edible fruit. While not all varieties bear fruit, those that do offer small, sweet, and tangy plums that can be enjoyed fresh or used in various culinary creations. So, if you have a purple leaf plum tree in your garden, don’t hesitate to try the fruit and explore its delicious potential.
