Gage (Prunus) Willingham 12L

Willingham is a traditional English greengage that many growers rank among the best-flavoured gages of all. It arose in the 19th century around the village of Willingham in Cambridgeshire and is thought to be a seedling of the Old Greengage, making it a close cousin of Cambridge Gage. White spring blossom, popular with bees, is followed in mid to late August by round, pale green fruits with very sweet, juicy flesh and a lovely hint of melon. They're best enjoyed fresh from the tree, and also make delicious jams and compotes.

Willingham is easy to grow and crops reliably. It forms a tree of average vigour, typically up to around 3.5m, which suits most gardens. It is only partly self-fertile, so it crops far better with another plum, gage or damson nearby for cross-pollination. Self-fertile varieties such as Denniston's Superb, Oullins Golden or Stella's Star make ideal partners. Like all gages it loves warmth, so plant it in the sunniest, most sheltered spot you have, or fan-train it against a sunny wall. It prefers fertile, moist but well-drained soil, so dig in plenty of well-rotted manure or compost before planting. Water well during dry spells while the tree establishes, and pick promptly as the fruit ripens. Prune only in summer to 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.

Supplied in a 12-litre pot.

Each tree is hand-selected before dispatch.

Available from Pengelly Garden Centre.