Prunus Flateryna - Flat-fruited nectarine tree

Prunus persica var. nucipersica 'Flateryna' produces flat nectarines in late summer. This fairly vigorous but small tree produces a beautiful light pink spring flowering. It is self-fertile, so it does not require another tree nearby to bear fruit. It produces small flattened red fruits that ripen in August-September. Their yellow flesh is juicy and sweet when consumed at harvest, and they can also be used in desserts. It is susceptible to leaf curl and requires regular treatments from late winter. Plant it in a sunny spot, in loose, fertile soil that retains some moisture in summer.

It is a member of the large Rosaceae family, which includes most of our fruit trees (apple, pear, cherry, plum). The species name "persica" was given to the peach tree because it was thought to originate from Persia. In reality, all cultivated forms of peach trees are native to northern China. It is the result of a natural mutation of the peach tree that occurred in the 16th century. It is a small deciduous and hardy tree that can be grown in all temperate regions, with a preference for the southern half. Its spring flowering, which is quite early, can be destroyed by late frosts.

'Flateryna' is a vigorous variety, but its mature size remains suitable for small gardens. It forms a small tree that reaches 3m (10ft) in height and 2m (7ft) in width. Trained as a half-standard, its short trunk carries numerous branches with vertical growth, giving it a slightly open, spreading habit. It starts bearing fruit at around 7 years old and has a lifespan of 15 to 20 years. Its foliage is a vibrant green and gives off a slight almond scent. It is deciduous and therefore sheds in autumn. Its leaves are long, measuring 8 to 15cm (3 to 6in) in length and 3 to 4cm (1 to 2in) in width, with a short petiole. Its light pink flowering occurs in April. The flowers are quite decorative but very sensitive to frost. Place the tree in a particularly sunny and sheltered location, such as in the corner of a stone wall. This tree is more commonly grown in Mediterranean-type regions, where it will be watered in summer. The flowers are hermaphrodite and self-fertile. They produce flat and irregular fruits that are initially yellow and red, before ripening to red. The fruits remain firm, thus extending the harvest over several weeks, from August to September. Nectarines that are picked slightly unripe will continue to ripen in the house.

Nectarines can be enjoyed raw or cooked, in sweet and savoury dishes. They can be flambéed, cooked in tarts, frozen, or deglazed. They pair very well with wine and duck. They can be found in many recipes, especially jams, compotes, and pastries.

'Flateryna' is ideal for small gardens where space is limited. You can plant it with dwarf fruit trees to create a compact orchard. There are many well-adapted modern varieties, such as the 'Garden Sun Red' apple tree, which can even be grown in a container and will delight you with its large sweet red fruits. The 'Belle Hélène' dwarf pear tree, whose fruits are as large as traditional varieties, is also a very good choice. As for cherry trees, the 'Garden Bing' cherry tree is a highly recommended self-fertile variety.