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Damson

Prunus insititia syn. Prunus domestica subsp. insititia

$34.00

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Edible sub-species of plum thought to be native to Great Britain, though its genetics are slightly unclear. Trees are generally disease-resistant, self-fertile and yield heavy crops of small, oval dark purple clingstone fruit in mid-summer. They are known for their depth of flavour, being both sweet and astringent. Damson trees grow to a similar or smaller height than plums, approx. 3-4m. Seed-grown from our own tree.

PB3

Cultivation

Damson trees grow in similar conditions to plums but are hardier to both cold and wind. They will do best in colder parts of the country, perform really well for us here in Hawke’s Bay with no irrigation, but may not enjoy the humidity and warm winters of the north. Most moisture-retentive soil types are suitable. Full sun or part shade. Add a bit of compost and mulch each year, and some companion plants, and they will thrive! Pruning is as for plums – prune to a vase shape in winter, and cut out dead, diseased or crossing branches. Cut out suckers any time if they appear.

Uses

Despite being high in sugar, the fruit is also quite astringent and so is typically not eaten fresh. However it is great for jams, pastes, chutneys, sauces, meat glazes, tarts, crumbles, wine and gin.

Due to their wind hardiness, damson trees have been used as windbreaks for orchards, either on their own or mixed with other species. Like other plums, they have beautiful spring blossom which is rich in nectar and pollen, attracting bees and other pollinators. Damson wood is valued for its fine grain in woodworking. A green dye can be obtained from the leaves, and a dark grey to green dye can be obtained from the fruit.

Medicinal Uses

Despite being high in sugar, the fruit is also quite astringent and so is typically not eaten fresh. However it is great for jams, pastes, chutneys, sauces, meat glazes, tarts, crumbles, wine and gin. <br><br>Due to their wind hardiness, damson trees have been used as windbreaks for orchards, either on their own or mixed with other species. Like other plums, they have beautiful spring blossom which is rich in nectar and pollen, attracting bees and other pollinators. Damson wood is valued for its fine grain in woodworking. A green dye can be obtained from the leaves, and a dark grey to green dye can be obtained from the fruit.

Primary Actions: antioxidant, febrifuge, styptic

Parts Used: fruit, bark

History / Folklore / Further Info

Jo Says

My daughter makes damson paste every year, counting the exact number of fruit in to the pan, and counting out the exact number of stones after cooking, as they are too fiddly (we think) to cut the stones out beforehand. We sometimes serve the paste with cheese and crackers at our workshops and courses, and it’s always a hit!

I prefer to make damson ‘gin’ – a cheap version using 12% proof vodka, which has usually cured nicely by the following Christmas. This one doesn’t make it to the courses and workshops!!

Shipping Advice

N.B. Shipping costs are added AFTER you have placed your order, you will then be emailed an invoice with bank details.

Smallest box rate:
This can fit up to 9 plants in 9cm pots.

Shipping a single tree can be expensive. We may be able to fit more in the box for the same price! See our shipping rates for single and multi tree boxes.

Combining sizes?
No problem, we will work out the best rate for you once you’ve placed your order.

Medical disclaimer

Jo has a passion for growing herbs but is not a qualified herbalist and has no medical background.

We are lucky to have Patricia Beagle working here at times, who is qualified, and some of her advice does appear on these pages, but herbs act differently for different people and can interact with other medicines. We therefore always recommend that you consult with your own qualified health-care practitioner before using herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing or on any medications.

Kahikatea Farm cannot take any responsibility for any adverse effects from the use of the plants or a plant not having the effect it is reputed to have.