A deciduous multi-stemmed shrub or small tree common in thickets, pastures, fields, fencerows, stream banks and disturbed areas. White spring flowers are followed by small, cherry-like, edible, red to yellow plums which ripen in early to mid summer. Fruit may be eaten raw, they are somewhat tart and acidic. Best used in preserves and jellies. Flowers attract bees and other pollinators and fruit attracts birds and small mammals.