Yellow Peach

History and origin

Originally from China, the peach (Prunus persica) was introduced to Europe by Alexander the Great after his conquest of Persia, hence its Latin name malum persicum, “apple of Persia”. In France, the peach tree has been cultivated since the 6th century and was particularly appreciated by the nobility in the 15th century, notably by Louis XIV, who cultivated 33 varieties at Versailles. The Prunus persica species produces four types of fruit: peach, pavia, nectarine and nectarine, each with white or yellow flesh varieties. More than 300 varieties are now listed in France.

Variety and cultivation

Yellow peaches, rich in varied flavors, require a temperate climate with cold winters and hot summers. Peach trees, reaching 5 m, produce for 15 years, with peak yield between the 4th and 11th year. Manual harvesting is carried out in several passes to pick the ripe fruits, and spring frosts are managed by watering or anti-freeze candles to protect the flowers.

Did you know?

In ancient China, the peach was considered the symbol of immortality. This is why we used to plant these fruit trees in the entrances of houses for protection and health purposes. It was believed that one could achieve immortality by eating large quantities of peaches.