Pluot Cierna Marhula – AB

Description

Pluot Cierna Marhula

The Pluot ‘Cierna Marhula’ is an exceptional hybrid marvel resulting from the cross between an apricot tree and a plum tree. This Slovakian variety, whose name literally means “black apricot”, captivates with its unique appearance and outstanding taste qualities. Also called “aprium” because of its apricot dominance, this hybrid fruit combines the best of both worlds: the juiciness of plum and the delicate aroma of apricot.

This exceptional fruit weighs about 70 grams and has a dark burgundy, almost black skin, contrasting beautifully with its orange to red flesh reminiscent of apricot. It is a perfect choice for lovers of original and tasty fruits.

Characteristics of the Pluot Cierna Marhula

🍑 Appearance of the fruit: The skin has a dark burgundy, almost black colour, hence its evocative name. The inside reveals a bright orange to red flesh, not fibrous and melting, which literally melts in the mouth.

🍯 Exceptional flavour: The taste delicately evokes apricot with pronounced notes of honey. A slight acidity brings a perfect balance between sour and sweetness, becoming sweeter when fully ripe. This unique combination offers an irresistible taste experience.

🌸 Flowering and pollination: The tree buds and blooms at the same time as the mid-season flowering plum trees, usually in April. The flowers are remarkably frost resistant, ensuring consistent and reliable production.

🌳 Characteristics of the tree: The wood resembles that of the apricot tree, while the foliage leans more towards the plum tree. The tree has a naturally balanced habit and exceptional hardiness.

Exceptional disease resistance

The Pluot ‘Cierna Marhula’ has a remarkable resistance to two diseases that are formidable for the apricot tree: Pseudomonas and Moniliose. In humid regions such as the North, where moniliosis can be fatal for the apricot tree, this hybrid offers a safe and productive alternative.

This natural resistance makes it an ideal choice for gardeners wishing to grow apricot-flavoured fruit without the usual sanitary constraints of this species.

Cultivation and maintenance

🌱 Planting: The Pluot ‘Cierna Marhula’ is ideally planted between October and December, except during frost periods. It prefers neutral, light, deep, fertile and well-drained soil. Avoid heavy, compact soils that can hinder its development.

💧 Watering: For the first three years after planting, keep the soil cool all summer long with regular watering. Thereafter, water mainly during periods of high heat.

🌿 Fertilization: Scratch manure on the surface every spring to maintain soil fertility and optimize production.

✂️ Size: Carry out training pruning during the first years. Maintenance pruning is then limited to the removal of dead wood and thinning to promote fruit pruning.

Harvesting and storage

The delicious fruits of the Pluot ‘Cierna Marhula’ are harvested in August when they are tender to the touch. Fruiting begins about 3 years after planting.

Storage at room temperature does not exceed a few days, but the fruits can be frozen after washing, drying and pitting for longer storage.

Culinary Uses

This exceptional fruit is mainly eaten raw, ideally shortly after the harvest to fully appreciate its aromas. It lends itself perfectly to the preparation of fresh fruit salads, clafoutis, crumbles, pies, jams and compotes.

Rich in vitamins C and A, potassium and fibre, Pluot ‘Cierna Marhula’ combines taste pleasure and nutritional benefits.

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