The nectarine is actually a peach, or rather a mutation of the peach. Unlike the peach, however, their skin is smooth and not as furry as that of the peach. The smooth skin is a recessive genetic trait, so peach trees may occasionally bear nectarines.

The nectarine - a botanical profile

The nectarine belongs to the rose family and has the botanical name Prunus persica nectarina. With proper care, the nectarine tree can reach a height of three to eight meters and an age of up to 30 years. Its growth rate is comparatively slow at ten to twenty centimeters per year, especially since it has to be cut regularly.

The nectarine tree flowers from March to April in white to pale pink. The flowers grow before the lanceolate leaves. This is the time when the nectarine tree is very sensitive to frost. The nectarine itself is large and fleshy. Their flesh is white, yellow, orange or reddish, with the white-fleshed fruits having a particularly aromatic taste.

The ingredients of a nectarine

The yellow-red fruit has less water and more sugar than a peach. However, nectarines have a variety of valuable ingredients. Among other things, they contain vitamins A and E, beta-carotene, potassium, magnesium, zinc and selenium. They have a slightly laxative, draining effect and strengthen the connective tissue. Nectarines are a fine table fruit that is also good for small snacks.

The different types of nectarines

The number of varieties of nectarines is almost incalculable and new ones are added year after year, while others disappear from the market. They vary in appearance and also in taste and aroma. While some taste slightly sour, others are very sweet.

Up to 100 different varieties of nectarines are offered throughout the season, most of which come from Californian breeds. Colors are often differentiated.
The most important yellow-fleshed varieties include:

  • sunny
  • arm king
  • Super crimson
  • May Diamond
  • Fiesta Red
  • independence and
  • Summer Grand.

The most important white-fleshed varieties include:

  • Firegem
  • Silverking
  • snow queen
  • Flavor Giant
  • zephyr
  • Mid Silver and
  • New Year's Queen

tips and tricks

Nectarines taste fresh and raw, and you can eat the skin. However, they are also suitable for fruit salads, in desserts, for cakes and in muesli. Nectarines can also be processed into jam, compote and fruit bowls.

TB

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Trees