Name: Laroda Plum Tree | Large Midseason Japanese Plum
Availability: InStock

Plum Tree (Laroda)

Laroda is grown for eating quality—large, dark-skinned fruit with juicy amber flesh and a rich, balanced flavor that stands out when fully ripe.

Large, visually striking Japanese plum
Juicy amber flesh with balanced sweetness
Freestone at full maturity
Midseason ripening within Japanese plums
Pollination required

Description

Laroda is grown for eating quality—large, dark-skinned fruit with juicy amber flesh and a rich, balanced flavor that stands out when fully ripe. Chosen for its combination of visual appeal and satisfying flavor, it delivers a dependable midsummer harvest without waiting for late-season plums.

Developed in California by Claron O. Hesse, Laroda was selected for a combination that’s immediately noticeable on the tree: generous fruit size, deep exterior color, and an interior that ripens to a juicy, freestone finish. When allowed proper hang-time, the flavor becomes rounded and complete rather than sharp.

Laroda fits comfortably into a home orchard sequence, ripening after early plums and around the same window as Santa Rosa. Its approachable flavor and freestone flesh make it especially easy to enjoy straight from the tree.

Overview

Japanese plum selected for size, color, and eating quality
Large fruit with dark skin and amber flesh
Freestone at full ripeness
Midseason ripening within Japanese plum types
Pollination required for consistent yields

Growing Details

Latin Name: Prunus salicina ‘Laroda’
Site and Soil: 1/2 day to full day of sun; well-drained soil
Chill Requirement: Approx. 300–400 hours
Hardiness: USDA Zone 5–9
Rootstock: Citation
Bearing Age: 1–3 years
Size at Maturity: Typically maintained at 10–14 ft tall and wide with pruning
Flowering Time: Mid flowering (within plum / pluot types)
Ripening Time: Midseason (within Japanese plum types); typically mid July depending on region
Pollination: Pollination required; plant a compatible Japanese plum within 20–30 feet
Pests & Diseases: Standard plum considerations; good airflow supports fruit finish
Yield: Moderate to good once established

Additional Notes

Grower’s Insight: Laroda rewards patience. Allowing fruit to fully color and soften slightly on the tree brings out the balanced sweetness it’s known for.
Regional Insight: Performs reliably across a wide range of temperate regions. In cooler summers, choose the sunniest site to ensure full flavor development.
Freestone flesh makes this variety easy to enjoy fresh.
Explore more plums in our collection: Plum Trees

planting & Care

At a Glance – Laroda Plum

Sun: 1/2 day to full day of sun
Soil: Well-drained soil
Water: Moderate; consistent during establishment
Size: Easily managed with pruning
Pollination: Required
Harvest: Midseason (within Japanese plums)
Hardiness: USDA Zone 5–9

Planting & Care – Laroda Plum

Site Selection

Choose a sunny site for best color and flavor.
Good airflow helps maintain healthy foliage and fruit quality.

Soil Preparation

Plant in well-drained soil.
Citation rootstock supports manageable size in home orchards.

Planting Instructions

Dig a hole twice the width of the root system.
Set the root flare at or just above soil level.
Backfill with native soil and water thoroughly.

Watering & Fertilizing

Water consistently during the first 1–2 years.
Once established, water during extended dry periods.
Fertilize lightly in early spring only if growth is weak.

Pollination

Laroda requires a compatible Japanese plum nearby.
Plant pollination partners within 20–30 feet.
Supporting pollinators improves fruit set in cool springs.

Pruning & Training

Prune annually to maintain size and balance.
Summer pruning helps improve light penetration and fruit quality.

Harvest & Use

Harvest when fruit is fully colored and slightly soft.
Excellent for fresh eating.
Use soon after harvest for best quality.

General Tips

Thin fruit in heavy years to improve size and sweetness.
Allow proper hang-time for full flavor development.
This variety excels with simple, attentive care.