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Purpleleaf Sand Cherry

Prunus x cistena

  • Stunning Purple Foliage All Season Long with Spring Pink Blossoms and Bird-Attracting Fruit
  • Cold Hardy: Thrives in Zones 4-7
  • Grows 10 ft Tall, 8 ft Wide
  • Showy Pink, White Blooms From Early Spring to Late Spring
  • Excellent Privacy Screen or Hedge
Regular price $6494
Shipping calculated at checkout.
In Stock
Outside your zone (): not guaranteed Why

Rated for zones 4 to 7. Great in a pot brought indoors for winter, or as an annual.

Houseplant: grows indoors in any zone
Will it grow in your garden?

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Plant Size

Specifications

Plant specifications
Plant Characteristics Attracts pollinators, Cold hardy, Edible, Flowering, Fragrant, Drought resistant, Fast-growing
Hardiness Zone 2a to 8b
Sunlight Full sun
Height 10 ft
Width 8 ft
Watering Needs Moderate
Preferred Soil Clay, Loamy, Sandy
Growth Rate Moderate
Growth Habit Bushy, Spreading
Blooms In Spring
Flower Color Pink, White
Foliage Color Purple, Red
Fragrant Yes
Pet Safety Toxic to pets, Toxic to horses
Suitable Space Outdoors
Plant Name Cherry
Botanical Name Prunus x cistena
Species x cistena
Class Magnoliopsida, Rosales
Does Not Ship To AK, CA, HI, ID, MT, OR, PR, WA

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This product has no reviews of its own. The merchant grouped it with related products, so the reviews shown are from across that group.
A
Anna
Purple leaf Sand Cherry

Arrived looking great and is currently doing very well!

Hi Anna,

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful feedback about your Purple Leaf Sand Cherry! We're delighted to hear it arrived in great shape and is thriving with you so far. As you continue to care for it, be sure to provide full sun and well-drained soil to encourage vibrant foliage and abundant blossoms. If you ever have questions or want tips on pruning or plant care, feel free to reach out—we’re always happy to help.

Happy gardening, and we look forward to hearing more about your plant’s journey!

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

A
Anna
Purple leaf Sand Cherry

Arrived looking great and is currently doing very well!

Dear Anna,

Thank you so much for sharing your positive experience with your Purple Leaf Sand Cherry! We're delighted to hear it arrived in great shape and is thriving. These beautiful plants really bring vibrant color and charm to any garden, and it sounds like yours is on the right path.

If you ever have questions about pruning, watering, or caring for it through the seasons to keep it healthy and blooming, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re always here to offer tips to help your gardening journey flourish.

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

S
Suzanna
Sandcherry in the Midwest

When I first moved into my home, I thought the sandcherry that came with it was a small, ugly plumb tree growing amongst my shrubs. (I have a couple of other actual plumbs.) Soon I discovered my mistake, but what to do? The lowest section of it had thin growth, and gradually I pruned away the sporadic branches at the bottom. I now have a lovely, tree-form sandcherry. Other than some chewing by Japanese beetles, it is now a pretty little "tree" that receives admiration from all who visit my garden.

Hi Suzanna,

Thank you so much for sharing your journey with your Purpleleaf Sand Cherry! We love hearing how this misunderstood plant has transformed into a standout “tree” in your garden. Your thoughtful pruning to remove the sparse lower branches definitely highlights its natural charm and helps give it that lovely, graceful form.

It’s great to know that you’re keeping an eye out for Japanese beetles, as they can be a pesky visitor in the Midwest. For extra protection, you might consider introducing natural predators like ladybugs or trying neem oil sprays as an organic deterrent to keep those beetles in check. Also, regular watering and mulching can strengthen your Sand Cherry’s health and resilience.

We’re so glad your garden visitors admire your Purpleleaf Sand Cherry – it sounds truly delightful!

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

P
Pj
Deer resistant??

Is this a deer resistant bush??? Answer from Nature Hills: No plant is 100% deer resistant, but the Purpleleaf Sandcherry is rarely damaged.

Hello Pj,

Thank you so much for reaching out with your question about the Purpleleaf Sand Cherry. We truly appreciate you taking the time to connect with us!

As you mentioned, while no plant is entirely deer-proof, Purpleleaf Sand Cherry tends to be only rarely bothered by deer, making it a good choice if you’re looking to minimize deer damage. To give your shrub the best chance, you might consider adding some supplemental deterrents like putting up harmless deer repellents around your garden, or planting strong-scented herbs nearby which can help divert their interest.

If you’d like, we also have some great resources on deer-resistant gardening strategies available on our blog and customer care section, which could offer you additional ideas tailored to your specific area and landscape. Feel free to follow up anytime—we’re always here to help you find the best fit for your garden!

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

A
Argrif3
very pretty

I just have planted my first 3 sandcherry bushes and they look so nice. Are bird attacted to the fruit? I enjoy planting ornamental trees and bushes but also enjoy attacting wildlife to my yard.

Hello Argrif3,

Thank you so much for your lovely review and for sharing your excitement about your Purpleleaf Sand Cherry bushes! We're thrilled to hear they’ve already brought such charm to your garden.

To answer your wonderful question: yes, birds are quite attracted to the fruit of the sand cherry! The small berries provide a tasty snack that can draw in species like robins, waxwings, and cedar waxwings, adding lively activity to your yard. It’s great that you enjoy both ornamental plantings and inviting wildlife — sand cherry bushes are excellent for blending beauty and nature interaction.

If you want to encourage even more feathered visitors, consider complementing your sand cherry with other native berry-producing shrubs and adding a water source like a birdbath. These adds make a welcoming haven for birds! Also, be sure to keep the berries un-treated with pesticides to keep them safe for your winged friends.

Please let us know if you’d like tips on creating an inviting bird habitat or care notes on your shrubs—we’re always here to help!

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

L
Lovemygarden
beautiful and hardy

This is the only bush that still flowered after the unexpected hard frost this April, which ruined all the other bushes we have.It is especially beautiful when in bloom, with the added bonus of the beautiful purple leaf.

Dear Lovemygarden,

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful experience with the Purpleleaf Sand Cherry! We’re delighted to hear that it stood strong and flowered beautifully despite the harsh frost in April. The combination of its resilient nature and stunning purple foliage really does make it a standout addition to any garden.

Since you’ve had such great success with this hardy bush, you might also consider companion plants that thrive in similar conditions to create a resilient and vibrant landscape. If you ever need tips on pruning or fertilizing these plants to keep them blooming their best, we’d be happy to provide guidance!

We truly appreciate you taking the time to leave this insightful review—it helps fellow gardeners discover reliable beauty in their outdoor spaces.

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

A
Angela
Purple Plum Hedge (Sand Cherry)

My husband baught a few sand cherries. When we planted them I thought "my, a purpley twig, it will take for ever to see what it looks like, probably look like an ugly black hedge", but after two seasons, I am so pleased that my hisband purchased these. They are so beautiful, now almost 4 feet high!and in spring with their blush colored flowers and when the sun shines on the leaves they seem to glow red and purple alll at the same time and the fragrence is a soft sweet, floral smell. I have fallen in love with my Purle Leaf Sand Cherry plants.

Dear Angela,

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful experience with your Purpleleaf Sand Cherry! We absolutely love hearing how a plant that first raised some doubt has now become a cherished part of your garden. It’s truly magical how their colors glow and change throughout the seasons, and you captured that beauty so beautifully. Your description of the blush-colored flowers and sweet fragrance paints such a vivid picture—you’ve captured the very essence of why these plants delight so many gardeners.

If you ever want to encourage even fuller growth or best enjoy their spring display, providing them with well-draining soil and watering during dry periods can help keep your Sand Cherries thriving. They typically respond well to a bit of mulch to maintain soil moisture and moderate roots during hotter months, too. And since you’re already enjoying those rich leaves and lovely flowers, you’re on a fantastic path!

Please don't hesitate to reach out if you ever want tips on pruning or caring for your sand cherries through winter—we’d be happy to assist.

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

K
Kicker
Wildlife plant

Purpleleaf Sand Cherry is a great wildlife plant!

Hello Kicker,

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience with the Purpleleaf Sand Cherry! We're thrilled to hear you find it to be a great wildlife plant. Its beautiful foliage and ability to attract various birds and pollinators truly make it a fantastic choice for anyone looking to support local wildlife.

If you’re interested, the Purpleleaf Sand Cherry prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade, which helps it flourish. To encourage even more wildlife activity, pairing it with native flowering plants or berry-producing shrubs can create a welcoming habitat throughout the seasons.

Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions about care or additional plant pairing ideas—we’re always happy to help your landscape thrive naturally!

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

K
Kicker
Wildlife plant

Purpleleaf Sand Cherry is a great wildlife plant!

Hello Kicker,

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your thoughts on the Purpleleaf Sand Cherry! We're delighted to hear you regard it as a great wildlife plant—its vibrant foliage and berries truly make it a fantastic choice for supporting local wildlife.

If you haven’t yet, you might find it rewarding to observe and identify some of the birds or pollinators that visit, as this tree often attracts a variety of species. For additional care tips, be sure to check out our online resources on flowering shrubs to help your Purpleleaf Sand Cherry thrive throughout the seasons.

We appreciate your feedback—such insights inspire us and fellow plant enthusiasts alike!

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

D
Donna
Perfect

This shrub and tree is perfect for bird sanctuaries and Nebraska gardening.

Hi Donna,

Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback on the Purpleleaf Sand Cherry! We’re delighted to hear that this shrub is a perfect fit for your bird sanctuary and Nebraska garden. Its fascinating foliage truly does create a vibrant habitat that birds love, and it’s fantastic you’re able to enjoy that benefit.

If you’re looking for ways to further support your backyard bird guests, consider planting a variety of native flowering shrubs alongside your Purpleleaf Sand Cherry to extend food sources throughout the seasons. And don’t hesitate to reach out if you need tips on pruning or care—this shrub thrives best with well-drained soil and plenty of sunshine.

Happy gardening, and thanks again for sharing your success with us!

Rooting for your garden’s success,
Your Nature Hills Plant Care Team

D
Donna
Perfect

This shrub and tree is perfect for bird sanctuaries and Nebraska gardening.

Hi Donna,

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful feedback about the Purpleleaf Sand Cherry! We’re delighted to hear it’s been a perfect addition for your bird sanctuary and Nebraska garden. This shrub truly attracts a variety of beautiful birds, which makes it a fantastic choice for creating a vibrant outdoor habitat.

If you ever want tips on care or companion planting to enhance its appeal even more, feel free to reach out. Consistent watering especially in the first growing season and well-drained soil will help ensure your Purpleleaf Sand Cherry thrives beautifully.

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

E
Edy34
Fast growing

Purple foliage of the purle leaf sandcherry next to a white flowering dolgo crabapple is quite a nice combination. They both grow fast after the first year.

Hello Edy34,

Thank you so much for sharing your lovely observation about your Purpleleaf Sand Cherry and Dolgo Crabapple combination! We’re delighted to hear that the vibrant purple foliage alongside the white flowering crabapple not only looks beautiful but that both are thriving and growing quickly after the first year. It sounds like a truly stunning pairing!

Since you’re enjoying fast growth, a tip to keep both plants healthy is to maintain consistent watering during dry spells, especially as they establish their root systems after the first couple of years. Also, a little mulch around the base can help retain moisture and suppress weeds for optimal growth. If ever you’d like to explore companion planting or seasonal care tips, please don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re here to support your lush and flourishing garden.

Rooting for your garden’s success,
Your Nature Hills Plant Care Team

E
Edy34
Fast growing

Purple foliage of the purle leaf sandcherry next to a white flowering dolgo crabapple is quite a nice combination. They both grow fast after the first year.

Dear Edy34,

Thank you so much for sharing your experience with the Purpleleaf Sand Cherry and the Dolgo Crabapple! We wholeheartedly agree—the rich purple foliage paired with those pristine white flowers makes for a striking and harmonious garden combination. It’s wonderful to hear both plants are thriving and growing quickly after the first year, as their vigor can really enhance your landscape’s beauty in no time.

To keep them healthy and looking their best, receiving adequate water especially during dry snaps and applying a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring can promote continued vigorous growth. Also, annual pruning right after flowering will help maintain their shape and allow sunlight to reach all parts of the plants.

If you’re interested, we have detailed care guides and bloom timing tips on our website for both of these lovely plants, which you might find helpful as their seasons progress.

Thanks again for your kind review and for trusting Nature Hills with your gardening needs. Happy gardening to you!

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

T
Tommy
Hardy

The purpleleaf sandcherry is a good ornamental tree for the North. It is hardy.

Hi Tommy,

Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts on the Purpleleaf Sand Cherry! We're delighted to hear that it’s proving to be a hardy and attractive ornamental tree for your northern garden. Its resilience indeed makes it a fantastic choice for those cooler climates.

If you’re looking for tips to keep yours thriving even more, remember that Purpleleaf Sand Cherries prefer well-drained soil and a location with full sun for the best foliage color. Pruning lightly in early spring can help maintain its shape and promote healthy growth as well.

We truly appreciate your feedback—it helps fellow gardeners make confident choices when picking plants for their landscape.

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

T
Tommy
Hardy

The purpleleaf sandcherry is a good ornamental tree for the North. It is hardy.

Hi Tommy,

Thank you so much for sharing your experience with the Purpleleaf Sand Cherry! We’re delighted to hear you find it a hardy and beautiful addition to Northern landscapes. It truly is a versatile ornamental tree that brings lovely color and resilience to gardens in cooler climates.

If you ever need tips on caring for your Purpleleaf Sand Cherry—such as ideal pruning times or soil preferences—feel free to reach out! We're always happy to help ensure your tree thrives for many seasons to come.

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

o
oath101
Stunning

I just got this little bush and to my surprise it belongs to the same family as my Nanking Sherry and I can only say positive things about it. First of all, the color of the leaves are stunning. I have planted it behind a yellow and green yellow bush in full sun. I have very fertile soil so I'm hoping it will do as well as my other cherry. I can't wait for the fall and next May to see the beautiful flowers.

Hi oath101,

Thank you so much for sharing your lovely experience with your new Purpleleaf Sand Cherry! We're delighted to hear that its stunning leaf color is already making a bold statement in your garden, especially planted alongside your yellow and green bushes. It’s wonderful that you're adding another member of the cherry family to your outdoor space and having such positive experiences with it.

With your fertile soil and full sun location, your Purpleleaf Sand Cherry is definitely set up for success. Just a quick tip: while it does enjoy rich, well-drained soil, occasional deep watering can really help it thrive during hot summer days. We’re excited for you to enjoy those beautiful spring flowers and vibrant fall foliage—it sounds like your landscape is going to be spectacular.

If you ever want guidance on pruning or general maintenance to keep your bush at its peak, don’t hesitate to reach out. We're always here to help you nurture your garden’s beauty!

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

O
Oath101
Stunning

I just got this little bush and to my surprise it belongs to the same family as my Nanking Sherry and I can only say positive things about it. First of all, the color of the leaves are stunning. I have planted it behind a yellow and green yellow bush in full sun. I have very fertile soil so I'm hoping it will do as well as my other cherry. I can't wait for the fall and next May to see the beautiful flowers.

Hi Oath101,

Thank you so much for sharing your experience with your new Purpleleaf Sand Cherry! We’re delighted to hear you’re already a fan and that it shares a special connection with your Nanking Cherry—the stunning foliage and the seasonal charm they bring truly make them fantastic additions to any garden. Planting it behind yellow and green-yellow bushes is a lovely design choice that will create such a vibrant, eye-catching contrast as your Sand Cherry’s deep purple leaves pop against those colors, especially in full sun.

Your fertile soil sounds ideal, so chances are you’ll see your Purpleleaf Sand Cherry thrive and put on a beautiful show this fall and come bloom time next spring. Remember to keep an eye on watering during hot spells to keep things energized and hydrated. When next May rolls around, those dainty flowers will be the icing on the cake!

If you ever have questions about pruning, fertilizing, or any other care tips over the seasons, we’re always here and happy to help.

To greener days ahead,
Nature Hills Customer Care & Plant Support

M
Monte
Smells so sweet

I just purchased my first two SandCherries. I had planned on planting them on either side of my "bridal" bush. But when I got home I found that spot too shaded. I have now planted them near the house on the south side. My concern is that they may be too close to the house? They are currently 2.5 feet away. Should I move them to a different location?I chose these for their color plus the wonderful aroma!

Hello Monte,

Thank you so much for sharing your experience with your new Purpleleaf Sand Cherries! It’s wonderful to hear you’re drawn to both their vibrant color and irresistible aroma—they truly are a special addition to any garden.

Planting them 2.5 feet from your house should generally be fine, especially if that spot has good sunlight, as sand cherries prefer full sun to part shade for optimal blooming and fragrance. Just keep an eye on their growth over time; these shrubs can spread and might eventually require some pruning to keep an appropriate distance from your home’s foundation. Also, ensuring good soil drainage and monitoring for any moisture buildup near the house will help your bushes thrive without causing issues.

If you do notice them outgrowing the space or shading your other plants unexpectedly, relocating further away is an option, but since they’re established and happily growing, they’ll likely do well where you have them now. For future reference, placing shrubs about 3 to 5 feet away from structures is often advisable for healthy root and branch development.

We’re delighted you picked such a lovely pair. For even more care tips, feel free to visit our Plant Library or reach out anytime!

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

M
MonteCarlo
Smells so sweet

I just purchased my first two SandCherries. I had planned on planting them on either side of my "bridal" bush. But when I got home I found that spot too shaded. I have now planted them near the house on the south side. My concern is that they may be too close to the house? They are currently 2.5 feet away. Should I move them to a different location?I chose these for their color plus the wonderful aroma!

Dear MonteCarlo,

Thank you so much for sharing your planting experience and thoughtful concerns about your Purpleleaf Sand Cherries! We’re thrilled to hear you were drawn to their beautiful color and delightful fragrance—they truly add a special charm to any garden.

Regarding their current placement just 2.5 feet from your house on the south side, Sand Cherries generally prefer full sun and well-drained soil, so that’s a great spot for sunlight exposure. However, being very close to a structure can sometimes affect airflow and moisture levels around the plant, which could potentially lead to issues with fungal diseases over time.

If moving them may not be an easy option right now, just keep an eye on their growth. Ensure they get enough water (but avoid soggy soil), and periodically check for proper air circulation or any signs of stress. Once they mature, Purpleleaf Sand Cherries can reach a spread of 8 to 15 feet, so consider gradually transplanting them a bit farther away—about 4 to 6 feet from your house—to provide ample room for healthy growth and maintenance access.

For more detailed tips on planting and care, we recommend checking out our blog sections on berry bushes and ornamental shrubs at NatureHills.com. If you need tailored advice or help with relocation techniques, we’re always here to assist!

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

m
martyl
Prettiest shrub I have ever grown

I purchased my Purpleleaf Sandcherry in Spring of 2006. It has grown and bloomed so pretty for only having it a year. I like it so much that I bought 2 more this Spring.They are all gorgeous!

Hello martyl,

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful experience with your Purpleleaf Sandcherry! We’re absolutely delighted to hear that it not only grew beautifully within its first year but continued to impress you enough to add two more to your garden this spring. Such gorgeous growth is a testament to your care and the plant’s vibrant qualities.

If you’re looking for tips to keep them thriving—especially as they mature—a balanced feeding schedule with a slow-release fertilizer in early spring may enhance bloom production. Also, be sure to prune after flowering to maintain healthy growth and shape. We have plenty of care guides on our website if you need more details!

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the Purpleleaf Sand Cherry perform in colder climates?

  • The Purpleleaf Sand Cherry is hardy in USDA zones 4-7, making it well-suited for cold climates. This tough shrub reaches 6-8 feet tall and maintains its purple foliage color throughout summer even in northern regions. Plant it in a protected spot for best winter performance.

What is the mature size of Purpleleaf Sand Cherry?

  • Purpleleaf Sand Cherry reaches 6-8 feet tall with a slightly wider spread at maturity. This dense-growing shrub can be maintained at a smaller size with pruning if desired. Shop at Nature Hills for this versatile accent plant that thrives in zones 4-7.

How often should I water this plant?

  • Water Purpleleaf Sand Cherry deeply once weekly during its first growing season to establish roots. Once established in zones 4-7, this drought-tolerant shrub needs watering only during extended dry periods. Check soil moisture 2 inches down before watering.

What pests should I watch for?

  • Purpleleaf Sand Cherry is generally pest-resistant but can occasionally attract aphids and spider mites during hot, dry spells. Scale insects may also appear on older branches. Monitor your shrub regularly during summer months and treat with horticultural oil if needed.

Can I shape it as a single-trunk tree or multi-stemmed shrub?

  • Purpleleaf Sand Cherry can be trained as either a single-trunk small tree or left as a natural multi-stemmed shrub. This versatile 6-8 foot plant responds well to pruning and shaping. Prune in late winter to establish your preferred form early, available at naturehills.com.

How long does this plant typically live?

  • Purpleleaf Sand Cherry typically lives 15-20 years with proper care in zones 4-7. This hybrid shrub may have a shorter lifespan than some other ornamentals but provides years of stunning purple foliage and spring blooms. Regular pruning and well-draining soil help maximize its productive years.