Prunus persica Redhaven - Peach Tree

The Redhaven Peach is a self-fertile, hardy fruit tree with a mid-late flowering season. It produces a peach with a yellow-orange skin, widely punctuated with red, in August. Its soft yellow flesh is very fragrant, sweet, and juicy, making it highly prized as a table peach and for use in pies and cakes. Although hardy, the Redhaven Peach prefers hot, sunny, and sheltered locations and is sensitive to spring frosts, as late frost can destroy the upcoming fruit.

The species name "Persica" was given to the peach, which was thought to originate from Persia. In reality, all cultivated forms originate from northern China. Its appearance in Europe occurred in the 6th century and experienced significant development in the 19th century. From there, numerous selections aimed at improving the fruit's taste qualities took place. The Redhaven Peach is the result of a cross between Hale Haven and Kalhaven, obtained by S. Johnston at the South Haven Experimental Station in Michigan, USA.

Like many fruit trees, the Redhaven Peach prefers light, rich, and deep soils, and it does not tolerate excessive water or heavy, compacted soils well. For this variety, caution should be exercised regarding cold and drought: a sunny location sheltered from the wind and watering during prolonged dry periods will help. It is a vigorous tree with a spreading habit, indicating a tall trunk with numerous horizontal branches, giving it a very elegant silhouette. Its deciduous foliage is a vibrant green and emits a slight almond scent. Its leaves are long, measuring 8 to 15 cm (3 to 6in) in length and 3 to 4 cm (1 to 2in) in width, with short petioles.
Its pale pink flowering, which is semi-early, occurs in late March. The flowers are hermaphroditic and self-fertile. Apart from its sensitivity to frost, its flowering can be susceptible to fungal diseases. Consider applying Bordeaux mixture when the flower buds appear.
Fruiting is semi-late. Its fragrant and juicy yellow-fleshed fruits weigh between 140 and 170g and can be harvested as early as the end of July. This tree does not require excessive maintenance and responds well to pruning.

Peaches can be enjoyed raw, cooked, sweet, savoury, flambéed, glazed, or deglazed. They pair well with wine and certain meats, such as duck. They can be found in numerous recipes, including jams, compotes, pastries, and more.