(Prunus cerasifera)
Family: Rosaceae

Description
Medium tree with a fast growing rate and a symmetrical canopy. Height is 15–25 ft. (4–7 m). Leaves are 2–4 in. (5–10 cm) long, elliptical or ovate and purple or red in color. They turn purple in the fall. Bark is thin, easily damaged and lacks thorns. Flowers are pink or white and bloom in spring. Fruit is 1–3 in. (2–7 cm) long, round, fleshy and purple in color. It is edible for both humans and animals.

Habitat
Mostly in well-drained soil with an acid pH or slightly alkaline soil. Non-native to New Mexico.

Discussion
The fruits of this tree attract birds, squirrels and other mammals. This tree is very popular in gardens due to its unusual leaf color. It makes a nice, small ornamental near a deck or patio. This tree is short lived, only surviving about 10–15 years.