Mariposa Plum Tree

Mariposa Plum Tree produces large, heart-shaped fruit with smooth purple skin and vivid red flesh that turns every slice into a showpiece. The juicy fruit is richly sweet with enough brightness to remain refreshing, making it excellent fresh and equally attractive in desserts, preserves, sauces, and fruit plates. White spring blossoms provide ornamental beauty before the colorful crop begins to form. With modest winter-chill needs, Mariposa can bring dramatic red-fleshed plums to gardens where some higher-chill varieties struggle. Its name—Spanish for butterfly—fits a fruit that feels colorful, distinctive, and especially welcome in the summer orchard. For gardeners who want a plum that delivers visual excitement as well as dependable eating quality, Mariposa offers an appealing combination of generous size, saturated color, abundant juice, and versatile kitchen use.

Mariposa grows semi-dwarf on Citation rootstock and is suited to USDA zones 6–10, with a confirmed 250-hour chill requirement. In suitable climates, harvest generally spans late July through mid-August. Plant in full sun, thin clusters for size, and maintain even moisture through fruit development.

Mariposa requires a compatible Japanese plum. The confirmed available partner is Santa Rosa Plum; Burgundy is another orchard companion to consider.

Mariposa Plum Tree Details

• Fruit: Large heart-shaped plums with purple skin and vivid red flesh
• Flavor and texture: Juicy, richly sweet, bright, and refreshing
• Best uses: Fresh eating, desserts, preserves, sauces, and fruit plates
• Harvest: Late July to mid-August, with timing varying by region and season
• USDA zones: 6–10
• Chill hours: 250
• Tree size: Semi-dwarf on Citation rootstock
• Pollination: Requires another compatible Japanese plum
• Recommended pollinizers/companions: Santa Rosa or Burgundy
• Special care: Thin clusters and maintain consistent moisture for large fruit
• Something Special: Mariposa is Spanish for “butterfly,” and the California name connects the plum with the state’s Spanish-language landscape.

Orchard Planning Resources

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