Damson (Prunus insititia)

Family: Rosaceae | Edibility: Choice Edible (5/5)

Prunus insititia is a deciduous Tree growing to 6 m (19ft) by 5 m (16ft) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower in April, and the seeds ripen in October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in heavy clay soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit, Berries, Nuts/Seeds

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Fruit - raw or cooked. More acid than a plum but it is very acceptable raw when fully ripe, especially after being touched by frost. The fruit is about 3cm in diameter and contains one large seed. Seed - raw or cooked. — Fruit - raw or cooked.; More acid than a plum but it is very acceptable raw when fully ripe, especially after being touched by frost.; The fruit is about 3cm in diameter and contains one large seed.; Seed - raw or cooked.

Habitat & North American Range

Thickets, hedges and open woods. (Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)