Alderman Plum on Myrobalan (Spring 2026)

Alderman is a late mid-season Japanese-American hybrid. It grows on a large, precocious tree that is very cold hardy and reliable. Dan Gordon in Growing Fruit in the Upper Midwest reports that "Alderman fruited every year in Excelsior, Minnesota from 1972 to 1985," and that Alderman will bear fruit as early as one year after planting. Alderman plum is not self-fertile, and it will need a pollenizer. Compatible trees include Bubblegum®, Compass, South Dakota, and Superior. No significant disease issues have been reported. This tree has an upright habit with acute crotch angles.

In spring, Alderman puts out a profuse show of white flowers that make the tree an attractive landscape feature. The fruit is largish, 2-21/2", with a burgundy red, smooth, waxy skin. The golden yellow flesh is extremely sweet and juicy, with a tangy flavor. This is a clingstone plum but it is worth the effort! Alderman is named after Professor W.H. Alderman, who headed the University of Minnesota's horticulture department from 1919-1953, during which time he contributed to the development of 62 varieties of cold-hardy fruits.