Plum Tree (Prunus domestica)

The plum tree is a deciduous tree species belonging to the Rosaceae family, cultivated primarily for its fruit. Its Latin name is Prunus domestica, and it is a high-value fruit tree with great genetic diversity that can grow in almost all regions of Türkiye. Its wild forms occur naturally in Anatolia and surrounding areas.

Biological Characteristics

The plum tree typically grows to a height of 3 to 6 meters. As it ages, its trunk develops a rough, fissured bark. Young branches are greenish or reddish-brown in color. The leaves are short-stalked, elliptical or ovate in shape, with finely toothed margins. In early spring, it produces white flowers that appear before the leaves. These flowers usually emerge singly or in pairs from the shoots.

Botanically, the plum fruit is a drupe. The stone may separate easily from the flesh or remain tightly adhered, depending on the variety. The flesh can be juicy, crisp, or soft. Its color ranges from green to yellow, red, purple, or even black.

Ecological Requirements

The plum tree thrives in temperate climates. It requires a specific period of low temperatures during winter, which is essential for completing its dormancy phase. The chilling requirement typically ranges from 500 to 1200 hours. Early-flowering varieties may be damaged by late spring frosts. During summer, it needs sufficient warmth and regular irrigation during fruit development. It is not highly selective regarding soil type but performs best in deep, well-aerated, well-drained soils rich in organic matter. Slightly clay-loam soils are preferred.

Plum Tree Flowers (Pıxabay)

Plum Species and Cultivars

Plum species can be classified according to their genetic origins, morphological structure, fruit characteristics, and intended uses. There are numerous species and cultivars of Prunus worldwide. In Türkiye, some of these occur naturally while others have become widespread through agricultural production.

Classification by Species

• Prunus domestica (European Plum): Includes widely cultivated varieties in Türkiye such as Stanley, President, and Anjelik.
• Prunus salicina (Japanese Plum): Originates from Asia and is common in the Mediterranean and Aegean regions. Important varieties include Black Amber and Red Beauty.
• Prunus cerasifera (Cherry Plum / Wild Plum): Native to Anatolia. It is very early ripening, sour, and generally green in color.
• Prunus spinosa (Blackthorn / Sloe): Grows naturally in the wild. It produces small, astringent fruits.

Main Plum Varieties Cultivated in Türkiye

• Can Erik (Cherry Plum): An early-ripening variety that matures in April with a sour flavor.
• Papaz Erik (Priest Plum): Known for its purple skin and balanced sweet-sour taste.
• Anjelik Erik: Has purple skin, yellow flesh, and a sweet flavor.
• Stanley: Used for drying; has purple skin and easily separable stone.
• President: A late-ripening variety with large, purple fruits.
• Black Amber: A Japanese plum with dark purple to black skin and yellow flesh.
• Red Beauty: An early-ripening Japanese plum with red skin.

Classification by Use

• Table Use: Can eriği, Papaz eriği, Anjelik, Red Beauty
• Drying Use: Stanley, President
• Industrial Use: Stanley and others for jam, fruit juice production
• Early Ripening: Can eriği, Red Beauty
• Late Ripening: President, Stanley

Species Used as Rootstocks

Species such as Prunus cerasifera are used as dwarf rootstocks for apricot and almond trees. They exhibit high resistance and adaptability.

Plum Tree Flowers (Pıxabay)

Cultivation and Situation in Türkiye

Türkiye is highly suitable for plum cultivation due to its climate and soil conditions. It is widely grown in the Marmara, Aegean, Mediterranean, Black Sea, and Central Anatolia regions. Mersin, Manisa, Bursa, Tokat, Amasya, and Iğdır are among Türkiye’s leading plum production centers. According to data from the Türkiye Statistical Institute, annual production exceeds 300,000 tons. Early-ripening varieties are exported primarily to Middle Eastern and European markets.

Pests and Diseases

Plum trees are susceptible to several diseases and pests. The most common diseases include blossom and fruit rot (known as Monilinia, caused by Monilinia spp.), shot hole disease (Wilsonomyces carpophilus), and bacterial canker (Pseudomonas syringae). Major pests include aphids, plum curculio, and scale insects. Control is achieved through biological methods, cultural practices, and appropriate pesticide use.

Harvesting and Storage

The ripening period of plum varieties varies from late April to September. Harvest time depends on the intended use of the variety. Table varieties are harvested at full maturity, while drying varieties are picked later. Rapid transport and a cold chain are essential for varieties with short shelf life. They can be stored for 2 to 4 weeks at 0–2 °C in cold storage facilities.

Uses

Plum fruit is consumed fresh, dried, or processed. It is widely used in the production of jam, marmalade, compote, pestil, fruit juice, and desserts. Drying varieties are especially important in industrial production. Additionally, due to its perceived digestive benefits, plum is used in some traditional health practices.

Cultural and Social Significance

The plum fruit holds an important place in Türkiye’s traditional cuisine. As one of the first fruits to appear with the arrival of spring, it carries symbolic meaning. In particular, Can eriği is widely available during Ramadan and in local markets. Plum also frequently appears in folk literature, enriching the linguistic culture through various idioms and metaphors.