Prunus domestica Mr Hâtif - Organic Common plum

The Organic Mr Hâtif Plum Tree, from Organic farming, is a very old, vigorous, early variety, whose productivity is good but somewhat irregular. It produces dark red-violet skinned, medium-sized, round plums from the end of July, depending on the region. They have juicy and fragrant golden yellow flesh, but are not very sweet and easily detach from the stone. These fruits are perfect for pies and desserts, compotes and preserves.

The original area of plum trees, in Latin Prunus domestica, is Syria, not China. During the time of Roman rule, various local fruits including plums were introduced to Rome. The Mr Hâtif Plum Tree is also known by various regional names such as Monsieur du roi, Early Orléans, Altesse du roi. Its origin is unknown.

This fruit tree naturally grows up to 4m (13ft) high when mature, on average 3.75m (12ft). The bushy silhouette of its spreading habit is attractive and, when pruned well, it will be easy to harvest. It enjoys sun or partial shade, sheltered from the wind and grows in all types of deep soil, even clayey and fairly dry in summer. Soils that are too wet or excessively chalky should be avoided.
Its leaves are ovate, almost oblong, serrated-toothed and slightly hairy. They turn yellow in autumn before falling.
Flowering occurs early in March or April depending on the region when the tree is covered in white flowers on the previous year's branches. They are only partially self-fertile, so it is necessary to have another plum tree nearby with simultaneous flowering. The varieties 'Reine Claude d'Oullins', 'Opal' and 'Queen Victoria', or the Prune d'Ente (prune) are the most suitable. Harvesting can begin around July 15 in the hottest regions, and before August 15 in average climates.
The plums are ovoid to rounded, intense purple spotted with yellow, partly covered with a bluish bloom. Their yellow flesh is melting and juicy, with a fine and aromatic flavour. The stone does not cling to the flesh when the fruit is ripe.

Plums can be eaten raw straight from the tree, in fruit salads, desserts, or pastries and as accompaniments to meat dishes. They are transformed into jams but also into syruped fruits, compotes... They can also be used to make brandy.

For transport reasons, our tallest scions may be pruned before shipment. They are suitable for all common training sizes: cordons, espaliers, goblets, half-standards and low standards, but not high standards. If you would like more information or advice on training your fruit trees, please do not hesitate to contact us.