Prunus persica Red Robin - Organic Peach Tree

The 'Red Robin' Peach Tree, from Organic Agriculture, is an old variety that produces small to medium-sized peaches, measuring 6 to 7 centimeters (2 to 3 inches) in diameter and weighing between 110 and 130 grams. The peaches are round, slightly flattened at the top, and may have a crease. The skin is slightly fuzzy and bright red, while the flesh is white with red veins and has a sweet flavour with a hint of acidity when fully ripe. The stone separates easily from the flesh. This variety bears fruit quickly and the harvest can vary in abundance from year to year, sometimes showing an alternating pattern, allowing the tree to replenish its reserves. It is sensitive to spring frosts and prefers a warm, sunny, and protected location.

Prunus persica (Common Peach) is a fruit tree belonging to the Rosaceae family, originating from China in the Sichuan and Guizhou regions around 500 BCE. It was introduced to Europe in the 6th century and experienced significant development in the 19th century. Many selections aimed at improving the fruit's taste were made during this time.

The 'Red Robin' variety was obtained in 1941 by W.E. Lammerts in Ontario, California, United States. It is a crossbreed between the 'Babcock' and 'MayFlower' varieties. This peach tree forms a small tree with a fairly upright structure, reaching a height of 3 to 4 metres (10 to 13 feet) and a diameter of approximately 2 to 3 metres (7 to 10 feet). Its habit is well-suited to low forms (like a goblet) or espaliers. The foliage consists of lanceolate leaves measuring 8 to 15cm (3 to 6in) in length and 3 to 4cm (1 to 2in) in width, with serrated and wavy edges, a vibrant green colour, and yellow-orange autumn hues before falling. The leaves have a slight almond fragrance. In late April, the pink flowers, measuring 2 to 3cm (1in) in diameter, appear solitarily before the leaves on the previous year's branches. They can be destroyed by frost at temperatures below -2 to -3°C. It has a remarkably decorative spring flowering and is particularly attractive to bees and butterflies. It is a hardy tree, tolerating temperatures down to -10°C, but is susceptible to late spring frosts, which can damage its flowers and affect fruiting. It is a self-fertile variety, not requiring other peach trees nearby for pollination, although the presence of another peach tree can improve fertility. Fruit harvest begins in late June and continues until mid-July as they ripen.

Peaches are very delicate and should be harvested by hand with care. The fruits can be consumed immediately after harvest. Delicious and flavourful, peaches can be enjoyed as they are. They are ideal for making compotes, ice cream, sorbets, pies, pastries, fruit salads, and as accompaniments to savoury dishes such as duck, rabbit, chicken, and fish (salmon, cod, etc.). They are also perfect for making juices and syrups. Peaches are refreshing and hydrating due to their high water content. They are also filling and low in calories, while being rich in potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, and iron. They contain vitamins C and B, antioxidants, and fibre, making them a healthy choice. They are invigorating, energizing, and rehydrating. The fruits can be stored for up to a week in a cool place, away from light.

Like many fruit trees, peach trees prefer rich, deep, and well-drained soils. They do not tolerate excess water, heavy and compacted soils, or limestone soils. They prefer a sunny location sheltered from drafts and cold winds. A southeast or southwest exposure is ideal. In regions with frequent late spring frosts, peach trees can be trained against a south-facing wall. Popular for their fruits, peach trees find their rightful place in the garden, bringing joy to both young and old. With a wide range of varieties to choose from, it is easy to find one that suits your needs.