American plum is native to Nebraska and is well adapted to a wide variety of soil and climatic conditions. It forms dense thickets ideal for the outside rows of windbreaks and for wildlife habitat. Birds use the thickets for nesting, feeding, and resting areas. The twigs are a preferred source of browse for deer and rabbits during the winter. White flowers bloom in May, with red to purple plums ripening during September. The earliest ripening fruit is usually the sweetest and makes the best jelly. Brown spot, plum pocket and tent caterpillars can cause some problems.