American plum is a member of the Rosaceae or rose family, and one of 30 Prunus species found in the United States. It is the most broadly distributed wild plum in North America. It is also known as American wild plum, wild plum, red plum, and goose plum. It is a small tree to a large deciduous shrub that grows from 15 to 30 feet tall and up to 12 inches in diameter. It grows tallest in the southern part of its range. 

Trees typically have a single, often crooked, trunk and a broad crown. It is a moderately fast-growing tree and is short lived. It is not tolerant of shade and will decline with canopy closure, so it is uncommon in late successional forests. American plum has attractive spring flowers and edible fruit that are an important wildlife food.