Genus guide
Prunus — 41 species
Part of the Rose & orchard family family (Rosaceae)
Prunus is a broad genus of flowering trees and shrubs in the rose family, encompassing cherries, apricots, plums, and almonds, as well as ornamental bonsai selections such as Japanese Apricot, Sargent Cherry, and Wild Cherry. Most species demand full sun and well-drained soil, with moderate watering that eases off in dormancy. All Prunus are toxic to cats and dogs: leaves, bark, seeds, and stems contain cyanogenic glycosides, particularly amygdalin, which metabolises to hydrogen cyanide — even small amounts of wilted foliage or crushed seeds pose a serious risk to pets.
All Prunus species we cover
- Almond 'All-in-One'
- Almond 'Carmel'
- Almond 'Fritz'
- Almond 'Marcona'
- Almond 'Mission'
- Almond 'Nonpareil'
- Almond 'Tuono'
- Beach Plum
- Chinese Bush Cherry
- Czar Plum
- Damson
- Damson 'Merryweather'
- Damson 'Shropshire'
- Flowering Cherry 'Kanzan'
- Greengage
- Japanese Apricot
- Japanese Flowering Cherry Bonsai
- Marjorie's Seedling Plum
- Morello Cherry
- Nanking Cherry
- Nectarine Lord Napier
- Opal Plum
- Ornamental Plum 'Nigra'
- Peach Reliance
- Peach Rochester
- Peregrine Peach
- Plum 'Stanley'
- Plum 'Victoria'
- Prunus 'Accolade'
- Prunus 'Kanzan'
- Prunus 'Spire'
- Prunus maackii
- Prunus padus
- Prunus serrula
- Prunus subhirtella 'Autumnalis'
- Sargent Cherry Bonsai
- Sloe
- Sweet Cherry 'Stella'
- Sweet Cherry 'Sunburst'
- Wild Cherry Bonsai
- Yoshino Cherry
Prunus — frequently asked questions
Are Prunus plants toxic to cats and dogs?
Most Prunus are not pet-safe. Of the 41 Prunus species in the Growli library, 41 (100%) carry a toxic or mildly-toxic ASPCA classification and 0 are pet-safe. Always confirm the exact species on its pet-safety page before trusting it around cats or dogs.
How much light do Prunus plants need?
Most Prunus do best in direct sun. If yours stretches toward the window or loses its variegation it wants more light; scorched or bleached leaves mean it is getting too much direct sun.
Are Prunus easy to care for?
Some Prunus suit more experienced growers — several want strong light, sharp drainage or a specific seasonal rhythm. Check the individual species page for the exact regime.
How many Prunus varieties are there?
Growli's care library covers 41 Prunus species and varieties — browse them all above. They share a similar light, water and soil pattern, so once you learn one Prunus, the rest follow closely.
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