Prunus domestica Reine Claude Moissac - Common plum

Prunus domestica Reine Claude (de) Moissac is an old self-fertile and early variety of Plum tree. It forms a small bush with vigorous growth and an upright habit. Its flowering occurs in March-April with white flowers that attract bees. They develop into round, green-yellow plums during the summer ripening from early August. Their flesh is both sweet and tangy, and these fruits can be eaten fresh or used for making jams. This very hardy Plum tree should be grown in full sun in well-drained ordinary soil. 

Plum trees belong to the vast Rosaceae family, which includes most of our temperate climate fruit trees (Apple trees, Pear trees, Apricot trees, Peach trees, Cherry trees, Quince trees...) as well as small fruits (Blackberries, Raspberries, Strawberries). The Prunus genus itself is extremely large, with over 300 species, including both fruit-bearing (Almond trees, Peach trees...) and ornamental varieties such as many trees (Japanese Cherry trees, Flowering Apple trees...) and shrubs like the widely spread Prunus laurocerasus, or Cherry Laurel. Prunus domestica is probably native to Asia Minor (Syria) and would have been introduced to Rome, along with many other species, following the Roman conquests. According to some authors, its introduction to Europe might be more related to the Crusades, who really knows?
The "Reine Claude" form a group within the Plum trees, including many varieties such as Reine Claude d'Oullins, Reine-Claude Bavay, Reine Claude Dorée, Reine-Claude d'Althan, Reine-Claude de Chambourcy, Reine-Claude Diaphane, and others. A very old variety, Reine Claude Moissac is a productive variety from Lot-et-Garonne, locally selected from the population of Reine Claude Dorée (cultivated since at least the 16th century). Earlier and more branching than its relative, this variety is vigorous and has an upright habit, forming a small tree 4 to 5m (13 to 16ft) high and 3 to 4m (10 to 13ft) wide. Reine Claude Moissac is self-fertile and therefore does not require pollination by another Plum tree. In March-April, simple white flowers with 5 petals and nectar are produced in corymbs. Once pollinated, the flowers develop into plums during the summer. They have a fairly round shape, medium to large size, and are green-yellow, with a slight blush on the sunny side. They ripen very early - early August - and their green flesh is firm, juicy, and sweet, with a slightly tangy taste. These fruits can be eaten fresh as soon as they are harvested and can also be used in pies or jams and transformed into eau-de-vie. Plums are refreshing fruits and relatively low in calories, rich in vitamins E (a powerful antioxidant beneficial to our cells) and B9 (involved in amino acid metabolism and helps reduce fatigue).
This variety is hardy down to around -20°C and thrives in full sun, in well-drained, neutral to slightly alkaline, preferably moist soil. It is an easy-to-grow tree, resistant to diseases, and not very demanding once well established.

This moderately growing Plum tree will find a place in most gardens. To enjoy fruit throughout the season, plant it alongside other species such as Captivator Gooseberry bush, which will offer its tangy berries in July. Apple trees will bear fruit after this Reine Claude, in September and October, as will Pear trees. And to extend the season into November, nothing beats the Solissimo Kiwi with its vitamin C-rich fruits, or a Chinese Persimmon like the Muscat variety with its decorative and succulent orange fruits.