Mariposa Plum Tree

Description

Mariposa Plum Tree produces large, heart-shaped fruit with smooth purple skin and vivid red flesh that turns every slice into a showpiece. The juicy fruit is richly sweet with enough brightness to remain refreshing, making it excellent fresh and equally attractive in desserts, preserves, sauces, and fruit plates. White spring blossoms provide ornamental beauty before the colorful crop begins to form. With modest winter-chill needs, Mariposa can bring dramatic red-fleshed plums to gardens where some higher-chill varieties struggle. Its name—Spanish for butterfly—fits a fruit that feels colorful, distinctive, and especially welcome in the summer orchard. For gardeners who want a plum that delivers visual excitement as well as dependable eating quality, Mariposa offers an appealing combination of generous size, saturated color, abundant juice, and versatile kitchen use.
Mariposa grows semi-dwarf on Citation rootstock and is suited to USDA zones 6–10, with a confirmed 250-hour chill requirement. In suitable climates, harvest generally spans late July through mid-August. Plant in full sun, thin clusters for size, and maintain even moisture through fruit development.
Mariposa requires a compatible Japanese plum. The confirmed available partner is Santa Rosa Plum; Burgundy is another orchard companion to consider.
Mariposa Plum Tree

Details

Fruit: Large heart-shaped plums with purple skin and vivid red flesh

Flavor and texture: Juicy, richly sweet, bright, and refreshing

Best uses: Fresh eating, desserts, preserves, sauces, and fruit plates

Harvest: Late July to mid-August, with timing varying by region and season

USDA zones: 6–10

Chill hours: 250

Tree size: Semi-dwarf on Citation rootstock

Pollination: Requires another compatible Japanese plum

Recommended pollinizers/companions: Santa Rosa or Burgundy

Special care: Thin clusters and maintain consistent moisture for large fruit

Something Special: Mariposa is Spanish for “butterfly,” and the California name connects the plum with the state’s Spanish-language landscape.

Orchard Planning Resources
Bare Root Tree Selection Guide

How to Plant Bare Root Trees

Fruit and Nut Tree Characteristics

Tree Rootstock Characteristics Chart