Golden Nectar Plum
GOLDEN NECTAR PLUM
The Golden Nectar Plum is patent #4977, granted January 25, 1983.
The plum is a seedling from a Mariposa Plum orchard in Exeter. The Golden Nectar was discovered by Bill Hengst. This gold plum is the most unusual to be introduced. First the parent is an all red skin and flesh Japanese plum. There is no resemblance to the parent tree.
The L. E. Cooke Co was fortunate to learn about this tree. A family I grew up with in Alhambra, California had a cabin in Mineral King. They spent much time with the Hengst family. One summer when the family was in our area, I was called and the suggestion made I should see this new seedling which was to be patented.
We were provided budwood to grow trees for the orchard but could not sell until patent was granted. This gave us time to study the tree and fruit. The tree is a fast grower and fruited in its second year. We started production in 1985 and began sales in 1987.
Golden Nectar is a unique extra large unforgettable eating delight. The skin is golden amber with a thin wax and tender texture. The flesh is amber, firm with excellent flavor. The pit is very small freestone, leaving quantities of flesh for eating and drying. The fruit keeps well on the tree and in storage at room temperature. The fruit ripens in late July.
The Golden Nectar Plum was entered in the County Fair two years consecutively and was awarded first place each time. Tulare is a plum growing county, so in competition with some of the best plums. Chilling is approximately 400 to 500 hours and sets well in most of southern California.
The large size, freestone pit, and thin skin make it a good seller, plus the freestone make for great halves for drying.
This is a L. E. Cooke Co. introduction.
Bob Ludekens