Plum Types and Varieties: A Comprehensive Overview | GardenersMag . 

By: Mitch Baylis

Plums are a popular and delicious fruit that have been cultivated for thousands of years. They come in a wide variety of sizes, colors, textures, and flavors. In this comprehensive overview, we will explore the different types and varieties of plums available to gardeners.

Types of Plums

There are several different types of plums including European plums (also known as Prunus domestica) and Japanese plums (also known as Prunus salicina). European plums are typically smaller and have a more oval shape compared to Japanese plums, which are larger and rounder. There are also hybrid varieties that combine characteristics of both types.

Varieties of Plums

  1. European Plum Varieties:

-European Plum varieties include popular types such as Stanley, Damson, and Moyer plums.

-Stanley plums are known for their dark purple skin and sweet-tart flavor. They are commonly used for cooking and canning due to their high sugar content.

-Damson plums have a distinctive oblong shape and are usually blue-black in color. They have a tart flavor and are often used for making jams, jellies, and preserves.

-Moyer plums are a newer variety that have a bright red skin and juicy, sweet flesh. They are great for fresh eating and can also be used in baking.

  1. Japanese Plum Varieties:

-Japanese Plum varieties include popular types such as Santa Rosa, Satsuma, and Shiro plums.

-Santa Rosa plums are one of the most popular varieties and have a deep purple skin with a sweet, juicy flesh. They are commonly used for fresh eating but can also be cooked or preserved.

-Satsuma plums have a bright red skin and sweet, tangy flavor. They are great for fresh eating and can also be dried or canned.

-Shiro plums have a yellowish-green skin and mild, sweet flavor. They are often used for making jams and jellies or can be eaten fresh.

Hybrid Plum Varieties

-Hybrid varieties of plums include popular types such as Santa Rosa-Beauty, Methley, Lemon Plum and Burbank plums.

-Santa Rosa-Beauty plum is a cross between Japanese and European plums. It has a dark purple skin and sweet, juicy flesh. It is great for both fresh eating and cooking.

-Methley plum is a cross between Japanese and American plums. It has a red skin and firm, sweet flesh. It is ideal for making jams, jellies, and sauces.

-Burbank plum is a hybrid of European and Japanese plums. It has a dark purple skin and juicy, sweet flesh. It is commonly used for fresh eating and can also be cooked or preserved.

  • Plum Season

Plum season varies depending on the variety and location, but it generally falls between late spring to early fall. European plums are typically ready for harvest in late summer, while Japanese plums are usually ready a few weeks earlier. Hybrid plums can have varying harvest times depending on their parentage.

  • How to Select and Store Plums

When selecting plums, look for ones that are firm but slightly soft when gently pressed. Avoid plums that are overly soft or bruised. Plums should be stored at room temperature until they are ripe, then they can be refrigerated for up to a week. To speed up the ripening process, place plums in a paper bag with an apple or banana.

  • Ways to Enjoy Plums

Plums can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, both raw and cooked. Here are some ideas:

  • Fresh: Simply wash and eat them as is for a sweet and juicy snack.
  • Grilled: Cut plums in half, remove the pit, and grill for a few minutes on each side. Serve as a side dish or dessert.
  • Jam: Use ripe plums to make homemade jam that can be enjoyed on toast or with cheese.
  • Cobbler: Plums are great for making fruit cobblers or crisps.
  • Chutney: Combine chopped plums with spices, vinegar, and sugar for a delicious chutney that pairs well with meats and cheeses.
  • Sorbet: Freeze blended plums with sugar and lemon juice for a refreshing sorbet.
  • Salad: Add sliced plums to a fresh green salad for a sweet and savory twist.
  • Plum Facts

Here are some interesting facts about plums:

  1. Plums were one of the first fruits cultivated by humans over 2,000 years ago.
  2. The world’s largest producer of plums is China, followed by Serbia and Romania.
  3. The most common plum variety in the United States is the Santa Rosa plum.
  4. Plums are a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as dietary fiber.
  5. The different colors of plums correspond to different levels of antioxidants and health benefits. For example, red plums have the highest level of antioxidants, while green plums have the lowest.
  • Conclusion

Plums are a delicious and versatile fruit that can be enjoyed in many ways. With their sweet and juicy flavor, they make for a perfect snack or addition to any dish. So next time you see plums at the grocery store, be sure to pick some up and give them a try in one of these creative ways! So next time you see plums at the grocery store, be sure to pick some up and give them a try in one of these creative ways! 

Mitch Baylis
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