Plum | Prunus domestica 'Violet Regina Claudia' - Girth 10-12cm - Height 200-250cm - 30lt

Prunus domestica 'Violet Reine Claude' (often spelled Regina Claudia) is a traditional European plum cultivar celebrated for its rich flavour, attractive appearance, and versatility in the kitchen. Belonging to the Reine Claude group of greengages, this variety is distinguished by its deep violet to dusky purple skin and sweet, golden-green flesh. The fruits are medium-sized, round, and slightly flattened, with a firm yet juicy texture, making them ideal for fresh eating, cooking, and preserving.

This cultivar thrives best in temperate climates, requiring a sunny, sheltered spot with well-drained soil to produce its best crop. It flowers in early to mid-spring, offering delicate white blossoms that are not only ornamental but also attractive to pollinators such as bees. As it is partially self-fertile, it can bear fruit on its own but benefits from cross-pollination with another plum variety to increase yield.

'Violet Reine Claude' plums typically ripen in late summer, usually around August in the UK. The tree is moderately vigorous and tends to form a rounded crown with age, making it suitable for both larger gardens and smaller orchards. Pruning in late winter helps maintain shape and encourages healthy fruit production.

This variety is valued for its balanced sweetness and fine aroma, which make it particularly prized in desserts, jams, and tarts. When fully ripe, the fruit offers a melt-in-the-mouth quality and is often considered among the finest-flavoured of European plums.

Resilient to most common plum diseases when properly cared for, Prunus domestica 'Violet Reine Claude' remains a cherished choice for those seeking heritage flavour and ornamental charm in one elegant tree.