How to Grow Purple Leaf Sand Cherry Bush - Plant Care & Tips

By NorwichGardener Team   /   2025

Purple leaf sand cherry bush is a plant that is known for its purple leaves. This plant is native to North America and can be found in parts of Canada and the United States. The purple leaf sand cherry bush is a deciduous plant, which means that it loses its leaves in the winter. This plant grows to be about six feet tall and four feet wide. The purple leaf sand cherry bush is a popular plant to grow in gardens because it is easy to care for and it is a beautiful plant.

How to Grow Purple Leaf Sand Cherry Bush - Plant Care & Tips

Also known as

  • Purpleleaf Sand Cherry (Prunus x cistena)
  • Dwarf Purpleleaf Sand Cherry (Prunus x cistena 'Nigra')
  • Black Cherry (Prunus serotina)
  • Chokecherry (Prunus virginiana)
  • Bunchberry (Cornus Canadensis)

Basic info

  • Purple leaf sand cherry bushes are small to medium-sized shrubs that are native to North America.
  • They are often used as ornamental plants due to their attractive purple leaves.
  • Purple leaf sand cherry bushes can grow up to 6 feet tall and 6 feet wide.
  • These shrubs prefer full sun to partial sun and well-drained soil.
  • They are relatively low maintenance and do not require pruning.
  • Purple leaf sand cherry bushes are susceptible to a few diseases and pests, such as powdery mildew, aphids, and Japanese beetles.
  • These shrubs produce small, white flowers in the spring, which are followed by dark purple fruits.
  • The fruits are edible and can be used in pies or jams.
  • Purple leaf sand cherry bushes are generally hardy in zones 4-
  • These shrubs can be propagation through softwood cuttings or seed.

Related plant:
Leycesteria Formosa Purple Rain

How to Grow

  1. For purple leaf sand cherry bush, first step is to find a plant that you like and that will grow in your area.
  2. Once you have found a plant, purchase it from a nursery or online retailer.
  3. Once you have your plant, find a location in your yard that gets full sun and has well-drained soil.
  4. Prepare the soil in the selected location by tilling or digging it to a depth of 12 inches.
  5. Add a layer of organic compost to the soil and till or dig it in to a depth of 6 inches.
  6. Plant your purple leaf sand cherry bush in the prepared hole and backfill with soil.
  7. Water your plant deeply immediately after planting.
  8. Apply a layer of mulch around your plant to help conserve moisture.
  9. water your plant regularly, especially during periods of hot, dry weather.
  10. Fertilize your plant each spring with a slow-release, organic fertilizer.

Related plant:
Purple Azalea Bush

The Soil

About soil condition, purple leaf sand cherry bush prefers well-drained soils, and can tolerate average to poor fertility and drought once established. It grows quickly in full sun to partial shade Exposure to full sun produces the best foliage color, however some afternoon shade is beneficial in hot summer areas.

Light condition

So, like the other leafy green plants, the purple leaf sand cherry bush requires sun to produce food for itself. However, too much sun can cause the leaves to scorch, so it's important to find a balance. The bush should be planted in an area that gets at least six hours of sunlight per day, but preferably more.

The Temperature

The temperature condition is perfect for the purple leaf sand cherry bush. It is warm enough for the bush to grow and thrive, but not too hot that the leaves will wilt and the flowers will droop. The cool nights are perfect for the bush to rest and rejuvenate itself for the next day.

Humidity Aspect

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is around 50%. If the humidity level drops below 40%, the leaves will start to curl and the plant will become stressed. If the humidity level rises above 60%, the leaves will start to drop off.

The Fertilizer

About fertilizer, this type of plant does best with a low nitrogen fertilizer in the early spring as new growth begins. For the rest of the season, a general-purpose fertilizer should be applied every 4 to 6 weeks. The frequency will depend on how quickly your plant grows and how much you trim it. It's also a good idea to topdress your plant with an inch or two of compost every spring to help it stay healthy and vigorous. As for watering, this type of plant prefers a moist, but not soggy, soil. Be sure to water deeply and regularly during the growing season, especially if you live in an area with hot, dry summers. Mulching can also help keep the roots cool and moist.

About light

Pruning your purple leaf sand cherry bush is important to maintaining its shape and preventing it from getting too large. You can prune it in the spring or summer, but avoid pruning it in the fall. To prune your bush, start by trimming off any dead or dying branches. Then, cut back any branches that are growing out of shape or are too long. Finally, thin out the bush by removing any branches that are crossing over or rubbing against each other.

Plant Propagation

Propagation is typically done through softwood cuttings taken from the plant in late spring or early summer. The cuttings should be 4-6 inches long and have several leaves. Cut just below a leaf node and remove the bottom leaves. Dip the cutting in rooting hormone and plant in a well-drained potting mix. Water well and keep in a warm, sunny spot. New roots should form in 4-6 weeks.

Growth Rate

Usually, the plant growth rate is about 12 to 24 inches annually. However, during the first year after planting, the growth rate is often much slower as the plant establishes its root system. Once the roots are established, the plant will usually grow at a steadier pace.

Basic Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are powdery mildew, black knot, and leaf spot. These can all be controlled with fungicides. If your plant has any of these problems, make sure to treat it as soon as possible.

Growing Tips

  • Make sure to plant your purple leaf sand cherry bush in an area that gets full sun.
  • It is important to water your bush regularly, especially during the hot summer months.
  • Fertilize your plant twice a year, in the spring and fall.
  • Prune your bush annually to maintain its shape and encourage new growth.
  • Be sure to mulch around your plant to help retain moisture and prevent weed growth.
  • Watch for pests and diseases, and treat accordingly if needed.
  • Be patient! It can take a few years for your bush to reach its full potential.
  • Enjoy the beautiful purple flowers your bush produces each spring.
  • Remember to also cut some branches to use in floral arrangements indoors.
  • Have fun experimenting with different ways to use and enjoy your purple leaf sand cherry bush!

Alternative Plants

  • Prunus x cistena 'Silver Mound'
  • Prunus x cistena 'Prairifire'
  • Prunus x cistena 'New Jersey Tea'
  • Prunus x cistena 'Dwarf Pink Weigela'
  • Prunus x cistena 'Dwarf Purple Weigela'
  • Prunus x cistena 'Dwarf Scarlet Weigela'
  • Prunus x cistena 'Dwarf Snowball Weigela'
  • Prunus x cistena 'Flamingo Weigela'
  • Prunus x cistena 'Grape Kool-Aid'
  • Prunus x cistena 'Raspberry Swirl'

Source:
Prunus x cistena - Purpleleaf Sand Cherry - Ohio State University
Ornamental Cherry Trees: Identify and Manage Problems
Nanking Cherry in the Garden | USU - Utah State University

Richelle Author Photo
Reviewed & Published by Richelle
Submitted by our contributor
Shrubs Category