Plum (Prunus domestica) BISTRIȚA

Plum (Prunus domestica) 'Bistrița'

The most famous Romanian variety with a long tradition and late ripening.

'Bistrița' is a legendary and probably the most well-known autochthonous Romanian plum variety. It is sought after for its reliability, self-fertility, and late ripening, which extends the fresh plum season into October. Thanks to the firm flesh, the fruits are ideal for processing and tolerate transport well.

Main advantages of the variety:

• Self-fertility and good yield.
• Late ripening (September – October).
• Late flowering (protection against frosts).
• Universal usage (excellent for jams and cakes).
• Good transportability of fruits.

Origin and Registration

• Country of origin: Romania
• History: Old, traditional, and widely grown variety.

Variety Characteristics

Tree

• Vigor: Medium to strong.
• Crown: Conical, dense.
• Fruiting: Bears fruit on medium-length shoots.

Fruit

• Size and Weight: Medium size, around 30 g.
• Shape and Color: Oval, oblong. The skin is dark blue to purple, with a strong waxy bloom.
• Flesh: Yellow-green, firm, moderately juicy.
• Taste: Sweet, harmoniously acidic, with mild tartness and subtle aroma.
• Stone: Freestone (separates from flesh).
• Usage: Universal – fresh consumption, ideal for processing (jams, cakes).

Resistance and Requirements

• Flowering: Late, reducing the risk of damage by spring frosts.
• Properties: Fruits tolerate handling and transport well.

Cultivation Recommendations

• Pollination: Self-fertile. Presence of pollinators (e.g., 'Stanley', 'Anna Späth') may increase yield.

Harvest and Storage

• Harvest time: Late variety, September to October.
• Yield: Good.