Bear plum
Prunus ursina
Family: Rosaceae
What it is like
A shrub. The fruit contains a single large seed.
There are about 200 Prunus species.
Where it is found
It mostly occurs on steep slopes and amongst rocks. It grows on well drained loamy soil. It will grow in shade but fruits better in sunny positions. Temperate.
Countries/locations it is found in
Europe, Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Mediterranean, Middle East, Syria, Turkey, Türkiye
How it is used for food
The fruit are eaten raw or cooked. The seed is eaten raw or cooked. CAUTION: Do not eat the seed if it is bitter.
Edible parts
Fruit, seeds
How it is grown
Seed needs 2-3 months of cold treatment for it to germinate. Seed can take 18 months to germinate. Seeds should be kept in a nursery for the first year before transplanting. Cuttings of half ripe wood with a heel can be used. Plants can also be grown from softwood cuttings or by layering.
Its other names
Local names
Erik