Plum Opal

Prunus domestica 'Opal' is a reliable, early dessert plum valued for its spring display of white blossom and sweet, early-ripening fruit. A deciduous tree for full sun, it performs best in a warm, sheltered spot to protect the blossom from late frosts and to aid fruit set. ‘Opal’ is self-fertile, so a pollination partner is not required, though nearby plums can enhance yields. Plant in moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil, water well in the first seasons, mulch annually, and prune in summer after fruiting to maintain shape and reduce the risk of silver leaf. Fully hardy in Ireland.

To help give a clear sense of scale, the stone wall shown in our photos measures approximately 265cm in height. We also use familiar garden tools as visual references: a digging fork (110cm tall) and a hand fork (30cm tall). These are included purely as size guides to help you better judge proportions when viewing the images.

Position: Full sun

Rate of Growth: Average

Soil: Moist but well-drained, moderately fertile soil

Hardiness: Fully hardy

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Plant at a Glance