Why Grow a Prunus Purple Leaf Sand Cherry?
If you want a low-maintenance shrub that makes a statement in your yard, the Prunus Purple Leaf Sand Cherry is a top contender. This fast-growing beauty has striking purple foliage that lasts from spring to fall, adding a bold pop of color to any landscape. In early spring, it gets even better—this shrub bursts into delicate pinkish-white flowers that not only look amazing but also attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.
One of the reasons we love growing this shrub is how versatile it is. You can plant it as a standalone ornamental shrub, use it as a hedge for privacy, or mix it into a landscape border for contrast. It grows fast, doesn’t need constant care, and holds up well in a variety of conditions. If you’re looking for a plant that brings color, structure, and easy upkeep to your garden, this one checks all the boxes.
Want to add one to your yard? We have them available here!
What Does a Prunus Purple Leaf Sand Cherry Look Like?
This shrub stands out in any setting, thanks to its rich purple leaves that keep their color through the growing season. Unlike some plants that only give you a few weeks of showy color, the Purple Leaf Sand Cherry provides months of visual appeal. The leaves start out as a deep reddish-purple in spring and maintain their bold shade throughout summer before turning a rich bronze in fall.
In early spring, the plant produces small, fragrant pinkish-white flowers that look similar to cherry blossoms. These blooms last for a few weeks and create a soft contrast against the dark foliage. It’s one of those plants that looks great from a distance but even better up close.
The overall shape of the shrub is rounded and slightly arching, giving it a natural, flowing look. If you’ve ever seen a Ninebark Crimson (another fantastic purple-leafed shrub), this one has a similar color but a different structure. If you want a plant that combines bold color with an elegant form, this is a great choice. You can check out Ninebark Crimson here if you're considering a mix of purple plants in your landscape.
How Big Does a Purple Leaf Sand Cherry Get?
One of the biggest reasons people love this shrub is that it grows fast and fills out quickly, making it perfect for hedges, borders, or a standalone feature in your yard.
Mature Size
- Height: 7-10 feet tall
- Width: 5-7 feet wide
- Growth Rate: Fast—adds 1-2 feet per year
Because it grows quickly, you won’t be waiting years for it to make an impact in your landscape. Whether you want a small ornamental tree or a dense privacy screen, this shrub can do both!
Looking for other fast-growing plants? Check out our collection here!
Best Location to Plant a Purple Leaf Sand Cherry
Where you plant this shrub will make a big difference in how it looks and how well it thrives.
Sunlight Needs
- Full sun is best (at least 6 hours daily) for the deepest purple color
- Can handle partial shade, but leaves may fade to greenish-purple
Soil Preferences
- Adapts well to most soil types
- Prefers well-drained soil (loamy or sandy works great)
- Avoid areas that stay too wet, as soggy soil can lead to root rot
Spacing & Placement
- If planting as a hedge, space shrubs 4-6 feet apart
- If using as a standalone feature, give it plenty of room to spread
- Works great near driveways, patios, or walkways for a splash of color
Need more ideas on incorporating shrubs into your landscape? Check out our easy landscaping shrub guide!
How to Plant a Purple Leaf Sand Cherry
Planting this shrub is simple and beginner-friendly, but getting it right from the start ensures healthy growth and vibrant foliage for years to come.
Step 1: Prepare the Planting Site
- Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball but just as deep
- Loosen the soil and mix in organic compost to improve drainage and nutrients
Step 2: Planting the Shrub
- Place the plant in the hole with the top of the root ball level with the ground
- Fill the hole back in, pressing the soil gently to remove air pockets
- Water thoroughly after planting to help the roots settle in
Step 3: Mulching & Watering
- Add 2-3 inches of mulch around the base to retain moisture and reduce weeds
- Water deeply once a week for the first few months to help roots establish
For more general tree and plant care tips, visit our Frequently Asked Questions page.
How to Care for a Purple Leaf Sand Cherry
Once established, this shrub is low-maintenance, but a little routine care will keep it looking its best.
Watering
💧 Water once a week in dry conditions
💧 Tolerates drought once established, but does better with occasional deep watering
Pruning
✂ Best to prune in late winter or early spring before new growth starts
✂ Trim off dead or damaged branches to keep it healthy
✂ Can be lightly shaped if using as a hedge or ornamental feature
Fertilizing
🌱 Apply a balanced 10-10-10 fertilizer in early spring for a boost in growth
🌱 Avoid excessive fertilizing—too much can lead to weak, leggy branches
Looking for other fast-growing landscape shrubs? Check out our collection here!
How Fast Does a Purple Leaf Sand Cherry Grow?
One of the biggest perks of this shrub is its fast growth rate. If you’re looking for a plant that fills in quickly, this is a great choice!
Growth Rate & Timeline
- Adds 12-24 inches per year under good conditions
- Reaches full height (7-10 feet) in about 3-5 years
- Can be pruned to maintain a smaller, compact shape
Because it grows so quickly, it works well as a privacy hedge, windbreak, or landscape accent. If you need a fast-growing plant for your yard, browse our Fast-Growing Plants Collection.
Does a Purple Leaf Sand Cherry Produce Fruit?
Yes! While it’s mostly grown for its purple foliage and spring flowers, the Purple Leaf Sand Cherry does produce small, dark cherries in late summer.
What to Know About the Fruit:
- Edible for birds and wildlife, but not commonly eaten by people
- Slightly tart in taste—not ideal for fresh eating
- More of a decorative bonus rather than a fruit-bearing shrub
If you’re looking for plants that provide fruit for your garden, this may not be the best choice, but if you love ornamental shrubs with added wildlife benefits, it’s a great pick!
Pros & Cons of Growing a Purple Leaf Sand Cherry
Every plant has its strengths and weaknesses, and the Purple Leaf Sand Cherry is no exception. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide if it’s the right shrub for your yard.
Pros:
✔ Fast-growing – Fills in quickly, great for hedges or privacy screens
✔ Beautiful deep purple foliage – Stands out from other green shrubs
✔ Spring flowers attract pollinators – Bees and butterflies love it
✔ Low-maintenance – Doesn't need constant attention
✔ Cold-hardy – Thrives in zones 3-8, even in colder climates
Cons:
❌ Short lifespan – Typically lives around 10-15 years, shorter than some shrubs
❌ Susceptible to minor pests and diseases – Can get leaf spot or aphids if stressed
❌ Needs full sun – Grows in partial shade, but color fades without enough sunlight
If you want another stunning purple-leaf shrub, check out Ninebark Crimson.
Is the Purple Leaf Sand Cherry Toxic?
If you have pets or young children, it’s always good to know if a plant is toxic before adding it to your yard.
Is it safe?
- The leaves, stems, and seeds contain cyanogenic compounds, which can be toxic if eaten in large amounts
- The fruit is safe for birds and other wildlife
- Pets may have digestive issues if they chew on the plant
If you have pets that like to snack on plants, it’s best to keep this shrub in an area they don’t frequently access.
Where to Buy a Purple Leaf Sand Cherry
If you're looking to add a fast-growing, low-maintenance shrub with stunning purple foliage to your yard, you're in the right place! We grow and ship healthy, nursery-raised Purple Leaf Sand Cherry plants directly to your door.
Why Buy from Us?
✅ Small American family farm – We take pride in growing high-quality plants
✅ State-licensed nursery – Your plants arrive healthy and ready to thrive
✅ Fast shipping – No long wait times, we get your plants to you quickly
✅ Great customer support – We’re here to help with planting and care advice
Ready to plant one in your yard? Order your Purple Leaf Sand Cherry here!
Is the Purple Leaf Sand Cherry Right for Your Garden?
If you're looking for a fast-growing, colorful, and versatile shrub, the Purple Leaf Sand Cherry is an excellent choice.
Why It’s a Great Addition to Any Yard:
- Low-maintenance and easy to grow
- Bold purple foliage all season long
- Fast growth rate, perfect for hedges or stand-alone plantings
- Attracts pollinators with its spring flowers
- Cold-hardy and adaptable to different soil types
It does have a shorter lifespan (10-15 years), but for the instant impact and beauty it provides, it’s well worth planting.
For more planting tips and ideas, check out our Learn More About Trees & Plants Blog.
