Plum

The plum belongs to the genus Prunus, which also includes peaches, apricots, and cherries. Its Latin name is Prunus domestica, and the species is thought to have originated on the shores of the Caspian Sea. Plum trees are grown in many parts of the world; among the largest producers are Russia, China, the United States, and Romania. In our region, fresh plums are typically available from May to October.

There are more than 2,000 plum varieties, bred by crossing cultivars with different sizes, flavors, colors, and skin tones: blue, green, white, yellow, red, orange, and more.

Plums are low in calories (about 40 per 100 g), which makes them suitable for weight-conscious diets. They also act as a mild diuretic and help cleanse the body. At the same time they provide beta-carotene, dietary fiber, small amounts of vegetable fat, plant hormones, B vitamins, vitamins C and E, iron, essential oils, potassium, calcium, magnesium, mineral salts, organic acids, phenols, carbohydrates, cellulose, and natural sugars.