Damson (Prunus) Sweet Prune

Sweet Prune is a traditional continental variety, also known as Quetsche d'Alsace, and is the classic German "Hauszwetsche" used in plum cakes across Europe. White blossom in late spring, popular with bees, is followed by generous crops of oval, dark purple fruits with greeny-yellow flesh. The flavour is sweeter and milder than a traditional English damson, lightly spiced with a subtle tang. The fruits are ideal for baking because their firm, drier flesh holds its shape in tarts and cakes, and they're also excellent for jams, compotes and drying into homemade prunes.

Sweet Prune is self-fertile, so a single tree will crop on its own, although another plum, gage or damson nearby will boost the harvest. It forms a robust, vigorous tree that suits most gardens and small orchards. Plant in full sun in a spot sheltered from cold, drying winds, in moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil. Feed with a balanced fertiliser in early spring, and water well during dry spells while the tree establishes. Prune lightly in summer to keep an open shape and reduce the risk of silver leaf and bacterial canker. Fully hardy. The fruit is delicious, 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.