Prunus domestica Mr. Hâtif - Common plum

Prunus domestica Monsieur Hâtif (or Blauwe Wijn in Flemish) is a rather vigorous variety of Plum tree, forming a small bush with an upright and spreading habit. Its spring flowering is white and decorative, attracting bees. They develop during the summer into elongated globular plums, with a beautiful purple colour and a slight whitish bloom, ready to be harvested from mid-July to August. Their flesh is fine, melting, juicy, and has a pleasant taste. They can be consumed fresh, as well as in desserts or compotes. For better pollination, plant another variety nearby, as Monsieur Hâtif is only partially self-fertile.

The Plum trees belong to the vast Rosaceae family, which includes most of our temperate climate fruit trees (Apple trees, Pear trees, Apricot trees, Peach trees, Cherry trees, Quince trees...) as well as small fruits (Blackberries, Raspberry bushes, Strawberry plants). The Prunus genus itself is extremely diverse, with over 300 species, including both fruit-bearing trees (Almond trees, Peach trees...) and ornamental trees and shrubs. Prunus domestica is probably native to Asia Minor (Syria) and would have been introduced to Rome, along with many other species, as a result of Roman conquests. According to some authors, its introduction to Europe may be more linked to the Crusades, who really knows?
The "Monsieur Hâtif" plum tree (also known as "Monsieur du Roi") forms a small bush with a slightly spreading habit, reaching a height of 4 to 6 metres (13 to 20 feet) and a width of about 4 metres (13 feet). This variety blooms in April, producing clusters of simple white flowers with 5 petals, which attract bees. This plum tree is only partially self-fertile, and its pollination will be improved by the proximity of another variety. It is advisable to choose for this purpose the varieties 'Victoria', which is very productive and has large fruits, 'Opal', which is vigorous and early, or Reine Claude d'Oullins, which is vigorous and highly fertile. In the case of cross-pollination, the production is quite abundant but fluctuates from one year to another, as this variety is sensitive to alternate bearing. Once pollinated, the flowers develop into drupes, fleshy fruits with stones, commonly called plums, during the summer. They ripen from mid-July to August and can be harvested at that time, it is advisable not to let them overripen. These fruits can be consumed fresh from harvest and can also be used in pies or compotes. Plums are refreshing fruits and relatively low in calories, rich in vitamin E.
Hardy down to -23°C (-9.4°F), this variety grows in full sun, in ordinary, well-drained soil, neutral to alkaline, and rather moist. It is an easy-to-grow tree, not very demanding once well established.

This moderately growing Plum tree will find its place in most gardens. Plant another variety like Reine-claude de Bavay to allow cross-pollination and improve your harvests. To enjoy delicious fruits throughout the season, plant Cherry trees like the Bigarreau Hedelfingen (non-self-fertile, to be planted with 'Summit' or 'Van'). If you have enough space, install Apple trees to enjoy fruits throughout autumn, as well as Pear trees. And for the end of the season, indulge yourself with a Persimmon tree that will delight you with delicious persimmons from October to December.