Plant Name: Italian Plum
Scientific Name: Prunus domestica ‘Italian’ — Italian Prune Plum, Italian Prune
Mature Height: 15–20 ft
Mature Spread: 12–18 ft
Growth Rate: Fast (2–3 ft/year)
Sun: Full sun
Water: Moderate; ~10–15 gal/week while establishing, then ~15–20 gal every 7–10 days once established; increase during fruit development and extreme heat
Foliage: Medium to dark green, deciduous
Fall Color: Yellow to orange
Flower Color: White
Bloom Time: Early to mid-spring
Fruit: Medium-sized, oval, dark purple skin with yellow-green flesh; sweet, firm, and excellent for drying
Harvest Time: August–September
Hardiness Zones: 5–9 (−20°F to 20°F)
Features: Excellent European plum; outstanding for fresh eating, drying, baking, and preserves; naturally high sugar content; dependable producer
Additional Facts: Self-fruitful and does not require another plum for pollination. Italian Plum is one of the best varieties for making prunes because the fruit dries exceptionally well.