Prunus domestica 'Damson'

A traditional, richly flavoured plum ideal for jams, preserves, and home orchards

Prunus domestica ‘Damson’ is a classic, much‑loved fruit tree known for its small, dark blue‑purple plums with a rich, tangy flavour. Highly prized for jam‑making, chutneys, baking, and preserves, Damsons have been a staple of traditional orchards for generations. The fruits ripen in late summer to early autumn, producing reliable, heavy crops even in cooler climates.

This hardy, disease‑resistant tree is easy to grow and performs exceptionally well in Irish conditions. Its spring blossom is attractive to pollinators, while the tree’s compact, tidy habit makes it suitable for gardens, orchards, and mixed fruit plantings.

🌿 Key Features

• Traditional damson plum — rich, tangy flavour perfect for preserves

• Heavy cropping — reliable yields year after year

• Excellent for cooking — ideal for jams, chutneys, and baking

• Pollinator friendly — attractive white spring blossom

• Hardy & disease‑resistant — thrives in Irish climates with minimal care

🌱 Growing Information

• Pollination: Partially self‑fertile (better crops with a compatible plum or gage)

• Harvest: Late August to September

• Fruit: Small, dark blue‑purple; richly flavoured and ideal for cooking

• Position: Full sun

• Soil: Fertile, well‑drained soil

• Maintenance: Prune in summer to maintain shape and encourage fruiting

• Hardiness: Fully hardy throughout Ireland