[9] It is commonly confused with the Canada plum (Prunus nigra), although the fruit is smaller and rounder and bright red as opposed to yellow.

[10][11] The American plum grows as a large shrub or small tree, reaching up to 4.6 metres (15 feet).

Beneficially, the shrub survives harsh winters, down to temperatures of -40 degrees (Fahrenheit);[13] but has little tolerance for shade, drought, or fire.

The white flowers are decorative in spring and its short, single leader makes it a popular residential landscape tree.

Sargent says of it: "As an ornamental plant P. americana has real value; the long wand-like branches form a wide, graceful head which is handsome in winter and in spring is covered with masses of pure white flowers followed by ample bright foliage and abundant showy fruit.

The sour and sweet fruit is eaten fresh and is processed as preserves, jellies, jam and wine.

Development of suckers from the root system makes American plum effective in stabilizing stream banks and gullies.

[21][full citation needed] The Plains Indians and Cheyenne ate the plums;[22] the latter used the branches for the Sun Dance.