Damson

Prunus insititia

Layer 2 · Understorey
Edible companion

Status by region

No restrictions recorded in the lists we checked.

Checked against the European Union list (Regulation 1143/2014) · Portugal's national invasive species list (Decreto-Lei 92/2019).

Information based on the cited sources, not legal advice — always confirm your local rules.

About

Small tree or large shrub close to the blackthorn, traditionally cultivated for its fruits. The bullaces are small bluish plums, sweet when fully ripe, used in jams and liqueurs. In agroforestry systems, it forms part of the lower tree layer, with melliferous flowering and good adaptation to rustic hedges.

It is harvested now — September is one of the harvest months.

See which trees damson grows well with

We have no trees recorded with this species yet. Start from the tree on your land.

See the central trees

No account needed.

Needs

Water: Medium
Light: Full sun
Size: Small tree up to 6 m
Mature diameter: 4 m
Soils: Clay, Loam, Sandy, Limestone
Climates: Hot, dry Mediterranean, Atlantic coast, Inland / Continental

Calendar

January — Planting
February — Planting
March
April
May
June
July
August — Harvest
September — Harvest
October
November — Planting
December — Planting

Harvest
Planting

Medicinal use: The fruits are highly valued for making sweets, jams and liqueurs, whilst also possessing a mild laxative and diuretic effect.

Where to buy

May grow well with

Suggestions worked out from growing conditions — same soil and climate, complementary layers and functions. These are not observed guilds; treat them as a starting point to try on your own land.