Fruit

Prunus domestica

S tier

Prunus domestica is the European plum species—oval fruit with a natural surface bloom, yellow to purple skin, and freestone or semi-freestone flesh used fresh, dried as prunes, and distilled. Trees need winter chill; fruit chemistry spans dessert sweetness to damson-level astringency depending on cultivar. Japanese-type plums (P. salicina and hybrids) are a related but distinct commercial group with rounder fruit and different bloom habits. Dry prune-type domestica for shelf-stable fruit; eat greengages and Victorias fresh; cook damsons hard. Recipes saying “plum” may mean either European or Japanese market types—check shape, bloom, and intended use. Pits are large relative to some cherries; always stone before pureeing.