Description

Plums are succulent stone fruits known for their smooth, waxy skins and incredibly juicy flesh. They range in flavor from sugary-sweet to pleasantly tart, with colors spanning from deep purple and crimson to golden yellow. Whether enjoyed fresh, baked into a rustic galette, or dried into sweet prunes, they offer a refreshing burst of summer flavor.

Plums are thought to be one of the first fruits cultivated by humans. European varieties originated near the Caspian Sea, while Japanese varieties (which actually started in China) have been grown for thousands of years. They were so highly regarded by ancient travelers that they were carried along the Silk Road, eventually reaching the gardens of Roman emperors and beyond.

Plums are the stars of the Summer orchard. While early varieties appear in June, the peak harvest for most plums runs from July through September. They are at their best when they give slightly to gentle pressure, indicating the sugars have fully developed.