Dwarf Plum ‘Ruby Blood’ is a compact, heavy-cropping plum tree that produces full-sized fruit packed with flavour. A long-time favourite in Australian home orchards, this dwarf variety delivers generous harvests of large, dark red plums while remaining perfectly suited to smaller gardens, courtyards and large pots. Its reliable performance and outstanding fruit quality make it an excellent choice for Melbourne and south-east Victorian gardens. In spring, the tree is covered in attractive blossom before developing large, rounded heart-shaped fruit that ripens from February to early March. The plums have striking dark red, speckled skin and rich deep red freestone flesh with a sweet, tender flavour. They are delicious eaten fresh and are equally suited to jams, preserves, stewing and baking. Like all dwarf fruit trees, Dwarf Ruby Blood produces full-sized fruit on a compact tree, making harvesting simple while taking up very little space. It is a prolific bearer and, because of its heavy crop loads, permanent staking is recommended to provide long-term support. Mature size: approximately 2.5 metres high × 2.5 metres wide Pollination: Suggested pollinators are Narrabean, Mariposa and Satsuma. Care & Growing Tips Plant in a full sun position with at least six hours of direct sunlight each day for the best flowering, fruit production and flavour. In Melbourne's hotter summers, protection from harsh afternoon sun and hot northerly winds can help reduce fruit scorch. Prefers fertile, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. If planting into Melbourne's heavier clay soils, improve drainage by planting into a raised garden bed or mound. This variety also performs very well in large pots using a premium-quality potting mix. Water deeply and regularly while establishing. During Melbourne's dry summer months, maintain consistent soil moisture while fruit is developing, reducing watering during winter dormancy. Feed in early spring and again in autumn with a quality fruit tree fertiliser to encourage healthy growth and reliable crops. Prune during winter dormancy to maintain an open canopy, improve airflow and encourage strong fruit production. Remove any dead, damaged or crossing branches as required. Apply a preventative Bordeaux spray during winter and again just before bud swell to help protect against common fungal diseases. Net the tree as fruit ripens to protect your harvest from birds. Permanent staking is recommended, as mature trees can carry heavy crops that place additional weight on the branches. Ideal for – Home orchards – Small backyards – Courtyards and patios – Pots and container growing – Fresh eating – Jams, preserving and baking – Family gardens – Productive edible landscapes
