Plum (Prunus) Opal Half Standard

'Opal' is one of the most dependable plums for the garden and holds the RHS Award of Garden Merit. Grown as a half standard, it has a clear, straight stem topped with a rounded head of branches. That makes it a handsome feature tree for a lawn, border or small orchard, with space beneath to mow or underplant. Often described as an early 'Victoria', it produces heavy crops of sweet, richly flavoured, reddish-purple plums from late July into early August. It is one of the first plums of the season. The juicy golden-yellow flesh comes cleanly away from the stone, and the fruit is at its best eaten fresh from the tree, although it is also good for jams, bottling and baking. White blossom opens in early spring and is valuable for bees and other pollinators. It is self-fertile, so a single tree will crop well on its own.

Plant in full sun in a sheltered spot, ideally facing south or west, for the best flavour. It prefers moist but well-drained soil. Improve poorer ground with well-rotted compost or manure before planting, stake firmly, and keep a weed-free circle of at least 60cm around the trunk. Because it flowers early, the blossom can be caught by spring frosts, so avoid frost pockets. Water well while it establishes and during dry spells as the fruit swells. Prune plums in summer rather than winter to reduce the risk of silver leaf and bacterial canker. Shape the head, remove any dead or crossing branches, and rub out any shoots that appear on the clear stem. Thin heavy crops in early summer to keep the tree fruiting well every year, and net ripening fruit to keep the birds off. It is fully hardy (RHS H6). Size depends on the rootstock, with the RHS giving a height and spread of 2.5–4m within 5–10 years.

Each tree is hand-selected before dispatch.

Available from Pengelly Garden Centre.