Mariposa Plum - Prunus salicina ‘Mariposa’

Mariposa Plum - Prunus salicina 'Mariposa'

Prunus salicina 'Mariposa' is a high-performing Japanese plum variety that delivers on two fronts: a striking spring blossom display followed by heavy crops of large, richly flavoured red-fleshed fruit. A refined choice for productive edible landscapes where performance and aesthetics are equally valued.

Why Mariposa Plum

Exceptional fruit quality: Large, sweet plums with deep red flesh and high sugar content, suited to fresh consumption and culinary use.
Reliable cropping: A consistently heavy-producing variety with predictable seasonal yields across suitable climates.
Ornamental spring display: White blossom emerges in late winter to early spring, contributing strong seasonal interest before fruit set.
Manageable form: A compact, well-structured canopy suited to deliberate placement within designed landscapes.
Dual-purpose value: Delivers both ornamental and productive returns across the full seasonal calendar.

Ideal Applications

Productive estate landscapes: A considered addition to working orchards or edible precincts on larger residential properties.
Designed edible gardens: Integrates seamlessly into structured kitchen garden layouts on prestige residential projects.
Seasonal feature planting: Effective as a focal specimen where spring blossom and summer fruiting both contribute to the landscape narrative.
Mixed orchard compositions: Pairs well with compatible stone fruit varieties to support cross-pollination and maximise yield.

Specimen & Installation

Spacing (feature/avenue): 5–7m
Planting Season: Winter to early spring (bare-rooted); autumn to spring (potted)
Soil & Drainage: Well-drained, fertile loam or sandy loam; prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–7.0); avoid waterlogged soils
Establishment Care: Water deeply and regularly during the first two growing seasons to establish a strong root system, reducing frequency once established. Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base, keeping it clear of the trunk, to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Plant Details

Height: 4–6m
Width: 4–5m
Growth Rate: Moderate
Foliage: Deciduous
Light: Full sun
Native to: China (cultivar developed in USA)
Flower Colour: White