Plums and pluots are both delicious fruits that have similarities but also distinct differences. As a gardening and landscaping expert, I have had the pleasure of growing and tasting both of these fruits. Let me explain the nuances between plums and pluots to give you a better understanding.
1. Genetic Composition:
Plums are a fruit that belongs to the Prunus genus and are primarily derived from the species Prunus domestica. Pluots, on the other hand, are a hybrid fruit resulting from the crossbreeding of plums (Prunus domestica) and apricots (Prunus armeniaca). The genetic makeup of pluots leans more towards plums, with approximately 75% plum and 25% apricot.
2. Flavor Profile:
Plums have a diverse range of flavors depending on the variety. They can be sweet, tart, or even a combination of both. Plums often have a juicy and slightly acidic taste, with a subtle floral undertone. Pluots, being mostly plum in composition, share some similarity in taste but tend to have a sweeter and more intense flavor. The addition of apricot genetics enhances the sweetness and adds a unique complexity to the overall taste of pluots.
3. Texture and Appearance:
Plums usually have smooth, shiny skin that can range from deep purple to red or yellow. They are round or oval-shaped, with a slightly firm and juicy flesh. Plums can vary in size, with some being as small as a cherry and others as large as a tennis ball. Pluots, being a hybrid, inherit the appearance and texture characteristics of both plums and apricots. They often have a smooth skin like plums, but the color can vary from shades of red to orange. Pluots are generally larger than plums and have a firmer, denser flesh akin to an apricot.
4. Seed Adherence:
In plums, the flesh easily separates from the seed, making it convenient to eat or use in cooking. Pluots, however, tend to have a firmer adherence between the flesh and the seed, which can make it slightly trickier to remove the seed. This characteristic is a result of the apricot genetics in pluots, as apricot flesh tends to cling to the seed more firmly.
5. Availability and Varieties:
Plums have been cultivated for centuries and have a wide range of varieties available worldwide. Some popular plum varieties include Santa Rosa, Black Beauty, and Elephant Heart. Pluots, being a relatively newer hybrid, have a more limited variety selection. However, there are still several delicious pluot varieties to choose from, such as Dapple Dandy, Flavor Supreme, and Flavor Queen.
While both plums and pluots share a common ancestry and offer a delightful eating experience, they have distinct differences. Plums have a more diverse range of flavors, while pluots tend to be sweeter and have a firmer texture. The genetic composition of pluots leans more towards plums, but the addition of apricot genetics contributes to their unique taste and appearance. Whether you prefer the classic plum or the hybrid delight of a pluot, both fruits offer a delectable addition to any fruit bowl or recipe.
