Opal Plum Tree 125/150cm 10L Pot Prunus domestica 'Opal'

The 'Opal' plum tree is a reliably fruiting variety, often growing to a height of 2.5 to 4 metres, depending on the rootstock. It produces white flowers in early spring, followed by green fruits that ripen in early August. This self-fertile plum is known for its heavy crop of large, pale red fruit with golden-yellow flesh, which is versatile and can be used for cooking, canning, bottling, or simply eating fresh. The fruits, often compared to an early Victoria, are ready to be harvested from late July.

'Opal' is highly regarded as one of the most dependable garden plums, although it does benefit from thinning the fruit, similar to the Victoria variety, to prevent biennial fruiting. While it is challenging to predict precisely when these trees will start to bear fruit, potted trees typically begin producing a small amount after 2 to 3 years, with a more substantial yield expected between 3 to 5 years.

One of the earliest ripening varieties, the 'Opal' produces deliciously sweet, bite-sized, free-stone fruits that range in colour from sunshine yellow to deep purple, with a pale yellow flesh offering a gage-like flavour. It is an excellent choice for extending the plum season. This tree is easy to manage and performs reliably throughout the UK, although the best flavour is achieved when planted in a warm, sunny position, such as against a south-facing wall. Being self-fertile, it is a practical option for many gardens.