Burgundy Plum Tree

Burgundy Plum Tree is an easygoing Japanese plum with deep color, gentle sweetness, and exceptional usefulness in a mixed orchard. Medium fruit develops maroon skin and richly colored flesh with little of the sharp acidity found in many plums, making it especially pleasant for fresh eating. The juicy, mild fruit also works beautifully in desserts, preserves, sauces, and summer salads. Burgundy’s long harvest window lets fruit be enjoyed over time, while its abundant white spring blossoms bring beauty and pollinator activity to the edible landscape. The tree is also valued as a broadly useful pollinizer for other Japanese plums and compatible hybrids. For gardeners seeking one tree that contributes both a reliable crop and better orchard pollination, Burgundy is a practical choice with genuinely appealing fruit.

Burgundy grows semi-dwarf on Citation rootstock and is suited to USDA zones 5–9, with a confirmed 300-hour chill requirement. In suitable climates, harvest generally spans mid-July through early August. Plant in full sun and well-drained soil, then thin clusters and prune for light and airflow.

Burgundy is self-fruitful and can bear alone. Another compatible Japanese plum or hybrid may increase bloom activity and fruit set; it is an excellent partner for Dapple Dandy and Emerald Beaut.

Burgundy Plum Tree Details

• Fruit: Medium maroon plums with richly colored semi-freestone flesh
• Flavor and texture: Juicy, sweet, mild, and low in tartness
• Best uses: Fresh eating, desserts, preserves, sauces, and salads
• Harvest: Mid-July to early August, with timing varying by region and season
• USDA zones: 5–9
• Chill hours: 300
• Tree size: Semi-dwarf on Citation rootstock
• Pollination: Self-fruitful; another compatible tree may improve set
• Recommended pollinizers/companions: Dapple Dandy or Emerald Beaut
• Special care: Thin crowded clusters and keep fruiting wood well lit
• Something special: Burgundy is prized not only for mild sweet fruit but also as one of the orchard’s most versatile pollinizers.

Orchard Planning Resources

• Bare Root Tree Selection Guide
• How to Plant Bare Root Trees
• Fruit and Nut Tree Characteristics
• Tree Rootstock Characteristics Chart