Damson (Prunus) Shropshire Prune Half Standard

Shropshire Prune is widely considered the finest-flavoured of all damsons. It's a traditional English variety that holds the RHS Award of Garden Merit. Its oval, blue-black fruits are larger than many damsons, and when cooked they develop a wonderfully rich, spicy tang that's perfect for jams, jellies, pies, crumbles, chutneys and damson gin. It crops regularly and generously from late summer. The white spring blossom is a magnet for bees, and because it flowers late it usually escapes spring frosts, which makes it an excellent choice for colder gardens.

This half standard has a clear trunk of around 1.2m beneath a well-branched crown. It grows into a classic freestanding orchard-style tree, with room to mow or plant beneath, which suits lawns, larger gardens and small orchards. Shropshire Prune is self-fertile, so it will crop on its own, although another plum, gage or damson nearby will boost the harvest. It has a vigorous but neat, upright habit and needs little more than light shaping. Plant in full sun in fertile, moist but well-drained soil, stake firmly for the first few years, and water well during dry spells while the tree establishes. Prune only in summer to reduce the risk of silver leaf. Fully hardy (RHS H6). The fruit is delicious cooked, but the stones and leaves shouldn't be eaten, so keep those out of reach of children and pets.

Each tree is hand-selected before dispatch.

Available from Pengelly Garden Centre.