CR

Prunus murrayana

Declining

Overview

A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.

Prunus murrayana faces severe population decline due to habitat destruction from agricultural expansion and urban development across its limited range. The species is particularly vulnerable to collection pressure for horticultural trade, as its ornamental value has led to over-harvesting from wild populations. Climate change poses an additional threat through altered precipitation patterns affecting the specific microhabitat conditions this cherry species requires for successful reproduction.

Threat summary

Habitat

Prunus murrayana inhabits montane forests and woodland edges at moderate to high elevations, typically growing in well-drained soils with partial shade. The species shows preference for rocky slopes and forest clearings where it can access adequate sunlight while benefiting from the moisture retention of surrounding forest cover.

Wetlands (inland) - Permanent rivers/streams· majorRocky areas· major

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Prunus murrayana classified as Critically Endangered?
Prunus murrayana is classified as Critically Endangered — facing an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild — because population sizes are very small, declining sharply, or restricted to a tiny range. Prunus murrayana faces severe population decline due to habitat destruction from agricultural expansion and urban development across its limited range. The species is particularly vulnerable to collection pressure for horticultural trade, as its ornamental value has led to over-harvesting from wild populations. Climate change poses an additional threat through altered precipitation patterns affecting the specific microhabitat conditions this cherry species requires for successful reproduction.
Where does Prunus murrayana live?
Prunus murrayana occurs in United States. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Prunus murrayana?
The main threats to Prunus murrayana are ai-1, ai-2, ai-3, and ai-4. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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