Plums come in a rainbow of colors, sizes, and flavors! There are a huge number of cultivars, because this plant is one of the oldest cultivated fruits, with evidence in Neolithic Swiss settlements of its existence. Now, plums are found worldwide and enjoyed in everything from dessert and confectionery to wine, but are also great just as they are.
Plum Colors
Plums can come in various colors, including yellow, green, red, blue, and even black. A plum may show one color on the outside, but eaters might discover a completely different color inside. Generally speaking, the darker the plum, the more tannic it will taste – so if you didn’t enjoy that Black plum, try a light yellow plum next time!
When are Plums In Season?
Find Michigan plums in early August throughout September, depending on the variety and location.
European vs. Asian Plums
There are hundreds of varieties of plums! Prunus salicina originated in China, and includes today’s popular varieties like the yellow Shiro, or “bubblegum” Toka. P. Domestica was bred in Europe and includes varieties found on the market today – Stanley and Victoria, to name a few.
Are Prunes Dried Plums?
Prunes, which contain sorbitol and are therefore great for motivating the digestive system, are oval, black-skinned plums that have been dried.
Michigan Plum Orchards
Find plums in your area using the Find Food and Farms Directory!
Sources:
Pulp, Abra Berens, Chronicle Books
Edible: An Illustrated Guide to the World’s Food Plants, National Geographic,
The Story of Food, DK Publishing