Prunus domestica Wignon - Common plum

Prunus domestica 'Wignon' is an old variety of Plum tree, vigorous and forming a small tree with an upright habit. Its late flowering occurs in April, or even May, in the form of white flowers that attract bees. Although this flowering period exposes it less to late spring frosts, it is very sensitive to them and should therefore be planted in areas that are less exposed to this risk. In September, it produces oval plums, with a dark red to purple colour, juicy and sweet flesh. They are best consumed fresh and are perfect for making pies or compotes. It should be grown in full sun in well-drained ordinary soil. It is a self-fertile variety and a very good pollinator for others.

Plum trees are part of the vast Rosaceae family, to which most of our temperate fruit trees belong (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 large, with over 300 species, both fruit-bearing (Almond trees, Peach trees...) and ornamental. 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 is rather linked to the Crusades, who really knows?

'Wignon' is an old, widespread variety in Belgium, where it originates from (Huy commune, in the province of Liège), mainly because it proves to be a very good pollinator for other varieties due to the quality of its pollen. It is itself self-fertile, but its flowering is very sensitive to late spring frosts. Vigorous, this Plum tree forms a small tree with an upright habit, about 4 to 5m (13 to 16ft) tall and 3m (10ft) wide. It tends to produce many suckers on the trunk, which must be regularly removed. This variety blooms quite late, in April or even May depending on the region, producing single white flowers that are attractive to bees. Once pollinated, the flowers form drupes during the summer, fleshy fruits with stones, commonly called plums. 'Wignon' plums have a medium size, often with an asymmetric ovate shape, with one lobe generally longer than the other, and a dark purple to red colour. They ripen around mid-September. Their yellow flesh is quite firm and juicy, and they are pleasantly sweet. These fruits are best consumed fresh after harvest and are also well-suited for making compotes and pies. Plums are refreshing fruits and relatively low in calories, rich in vitamin E.

Hardy down to -23 °C or even lower, this Wignon variety grows in full sun but also tolerates partial shade, especially in warmer climates. It thrives in ordinary, well-drained soil, neutral to alkaline, not too dry. It is an easy-to-cultivate tree, not very demanding once well established. Highly fertile and with regular production, this variety is not very susceptible to diseases, particularly brown rot and leaf spot. It is moderately susceptible to rust, aphids, and fruit worms.

This 'Wignon' Plum tree is well-suited to eastern regions where it should, however, be planted outside frost-prone areas in spring (bottom of a valley or other). If the surface area of your garden allows it, it can be the starting point for an orchard where you can also plant Apple trees, Pear trees, and the famous 'Mirabelle de Nancy', which appreciates the same continental climate and soil conditions. In milder regions, plant a persimmon, or Diospyros kaki, alongside it, whose late fruit production will extend your tasting season!