Hungarian Prune
The fruit is processed into prunes: with proper drying, they store for 1–2 years.
Hungarian Prune is one of the oldest cultivated plums, originating from the Near East and gaining prominence across Europe in medieval times. This variety earned its name from Hungarian gardeners who perfected its cultivation and made it a symbol of their fruit-growing heritage. Today, Hungarian Prune remains one of the most esteemed plums for commercial prune production, as it delivers the rich flavour and texture that is prized worldwide.
Hungarian Prune is a refined yet robust plant. From April to May, it becomes enveloped in a cloud of white blossom, promising a generous harvest. The fruits are dark violet, sometimes nearly black, with a natural silvery bloom and golden flesh inside. The variety is self-fertile, so a single tree will bear well, though planting it alongside apple, cherry or other plum trees will yield even more abundant crops. Its naturally high hardiness makes this variety a reliable choice for gardens across different regions.
In the garden, Hungarian Prune is a versatile asset. Beyond providing fresh fruit in summer, it integrates beautifully amongst other fruit trees, creating a harmonious fruiting landscape. But the true magic of Hungarian Prune emerges through drying: the fruits transform into prunes—those very same delicious, meaty and nourishing dried fruits that travel the world in bags and boxes.
If you wish to cultivate a garden that yields not only fresh produce but also the possibility of preserving your harvest for winter enjoyment, Hungarian Prune is your choice. This is a plant that works for you: easy to grow, generous in fruiting, and its produce can be transformed into a treasure that awaits you through the long months.
Hungarian Prune — planting & location
Classic prune variety, self-fertile, frost-hardy
How to water Hungarian Prune
Regular watering
Fertilizing and pruning: Hungarian Prune
Thin the crown