Plums, those juicy, sweet, and sometimes tart stone fruits, come in a dazzling array of colors, shapes, and sizes. From the large, crimson beauties to the petite, yellow delights, the plum family is diverse and delicious. But what about those small, intensely purple plums? The answer, as with many things in the world of botany, isn’t always straightforward.
Unpacking the “Small Purple Plum” Description
Before diving into specific names, it’s crucial to understand what qualifies as a “small purple plum.” Size is relative, of course, but generally, we’re talking about plums that are significantly smaller than a typical supermarket plum – perhaps an inch or less in diameter. The color is also important – a deep, rich purple, often bordering on almost black when fully ripe.
These characteristics alone narrow down the possibilities considerably. Many larger plum varieties can have a purplish hue, but if it’s truly small and intensely purple, we’re likely looking at specific cultivars and even closely related fruits.
Distinguishing Characteristics Beyond Size and Color
Beyond the obvious, other features can help identify a small purple plum. Consider the following:
- Taste: Is it sweet, tart, or a combination of both? Does it have an almond-like flavor, which can indicate the presence of amygdalin (a compound also found in almonds)?
- Texture: Is the flesh firm and clingstone (difficult to separate from the pit), or soft and freestone (easily separated)?
- Bloom: Does the plum have a powdery, whitish coating on its skin, known as bloom? This is a natural protectant and a sign of freshness.
- Pit: What is the shape and size of the pit relative to the overall size of the fruit? Is it smooth or textured?
- Tree Characteristics: If possible, observing the tree itself can be helpful. What is the shape and size of the tree? What are the leaves like? When does it bloom?
These details, combined with the size and color, can help narrow down the identification process.
Possible Candidates: A Look at Different Plum Varieties
Several plum varieties fit the description of small purple plums. Here’s a closer look at some of the most likely contenders:
Damson Plums: The Quintessential Small Purple Plum
The Damson plum is perhaps the most iconic small, dark purple plum. These plums are known for their tart flavor, making them ideal for jams, preserves, and other culinary applications. They are typically smaller than other common plum varieties and have a deep, almost black-purple skin.
Damson Plum Characteristics
- Size: Typically 1-1.5 inches in length.
- Color: Deep purple to almost black.
- Taste: Tart and slightly astringent.
- Flesh: Yellowish-green, clingstone.
- Uses: Jams, preserves, gin flavoring, and baking.
Damsons are relatively easy to grow and are prized for their intense flavor. They are a classic choice for anyone looking for a small, flavorful plum to use in the kitchen.
Prune Plums: Small, Sweet, and Ideal for Drying
While prune plums can vary in size, some varieties are indeed small and purple. These plums are specifically cultivated for drying into prunes, and their high sugar content makes them particularly well-suited for this purpose.
Prune Plum Characteristics
- Size: Varies, but some varieties are small (1-2 inches).
- Color: Deep purple to blue-black.
- Taste: Sweet and slightly tart.
- Flesh: Yellow, freestone.
- Uses: Drying into prunes, fresh eating, baking.
The “Italian Prune” is a well-known example of a prune plum that can be smaller in size and exhibits a deep purple hue. These are usually sweeter than the Damson varieties.
Sloe Plums (Blackthorn): Small, Tart, and Technically Not True Plums
Sloe plums, also known as blackthorn, are small, dark purple fruits that are closely related to plums. However, they are technically classified as Prunus spinosa, rather than Prunus domestica (the common European plum). Sloe plums are intensely tart and are rarely eaten raw.
Sloe Plum Characteristics
- Size: Very small (less than 1 inch).
- Color: Dark purple to black.
- Taste: Intensely tart and astringent.
- Flesh: Greenish, clingstone.
- Uses: Sloe gin, jams, jellies.
Sloe plums are a popular ingredient in sloe gin, a traditional British liqueur. Their tartness is mellowed by the alcohol and sugar, resulting in a complex and flavorful drink.
Other Potential Small Purple Plum Varieties
Beyond Damsons, prune plums, and sloes, other less common plum varieties might also fit the description of small purple plums. These might include:
- Mirabelle Plums: While typically yellow, some varieties can have a purplish blush.
- Cherry Plums (Myrobalan Plums): These are small, round plums that can range in color from yellow to red to dark purple.
- Certain Heirloom Varieties: Many older, less widely grown plum varieties exist, and some of these may be small and purple.
The Importance of Regional Variations and Local Names
It’s important to remember that plum names can vary significantly by region. What one person calls a “Damson plum” in one part of the world might be referred to by a different name elsewhere. Local cultivars and heirloom varieties can also add to the confusion.
For example, in some areas, any small, dark plum might be simply called a “wild plum,” regardless of its specific variety. This can make accurate identification challenging, especially when relying solely on common names. Consulting local fruit growers or nurseries can often provide more specific information.
Conclusion: There’s More Than One Answer
So, what are small purple plums called? The answer is multifaceted. The most common and accurate answers are Damson plums, prune plums (specifically smaller varieties like the Italian Prune), and sloe plums. However, regional variations and the existence of numerous heirloom varieties mean that other possibilities exist. The best way to definitively identify a small purple plum is to consider its size, color, taste, texture, and other distinguishing characteristics, and if possible, consult with a local expert. Knowing these key features will help you accurately identify the plum you are enjoying.
What is the most common type of small purple plum?
The most commonly encountered small purple plum is the Damson plum (Prunus domestica subsp. insititia). Damson plums are known for their distinctive tart flavor, dark purple skin, and firm flesh. They are frequently used in jams, preserves, and other culinary applications where their tangy taste is desired.
While other small purple plum varieties exist, the Damson is the most widely recognized and cultivated, particularly in Europe and North America. Its relatively small size, ease of cultivation, and unique flavor profile have contributed to its enduring popularity and widespread availability, making it the quintessential small purple plum for many.
Are all small purple plums the same type?
No, not all small purple plums are the same type. While the Damson plum is a very common variety of small purple plum, several other types and cultivars exist within the Prunus family. These can include varieties of cherry plums that lean towards purple, and hybrids that share characteristics with both plums and damsons, making precise identification challenging without specific knowledge.
Factors such as growing conditions, specific cultivar, and even ripeness can affect the color and size of these plums, further complicating identification. Therefore, while a small purple plum might superficially resemble a Damson, careful observation of leaf shape, pit size, and particularly flavor is needed to accurately determine its specific type.
What is the flavor profile of a typical small purple plum like Damson?
A typical small purple plum, such as the Damson, exhibits a characteristically tart and somewhat astringent flavor. This tartness is more pronounced than in larger, sweeter plum varieties, and it’s a defining feature appreciated by many cooks and bakers. This intensity contributes to the robust flavor found in Damson-based preserves and baked goods.
However, when fully ripe, the Damson can develop a subtle sweetness that balances the tartness. This balance depends heavily on the specific growing conditions and harvest time. The interplay between tartness and sweetness is what makes the flavor so complex and desirable, especially for culinary purposes where a less cloying sweetness is preferred.
How can I distinguish a Damson plum from other small purple plums?
Distinguishing a Damson plum from other small purple plums relies on several characteristics. The skin is typically a deep, almost blackish-purple with a slightly waxy bloom. The shape tends to be oval rather than perfectly round, and the flesh is often a greenish-yellow color. A crucial feature is the clingstone pit, meaning the flesh adheres tightly to the stone.
Beyond appearance, taste is a reliable indicator. Damson plums have a notably tart and astringent flavor, even when fully ripe. If the plum is excessively sweet or lacks the characteristic tartness, it is likely a different variety. Examining the tree’s leaves and overall growth habit can provide further clues, although accurate identification often requires expert knowledge or comparison with documented examples.
What are some common uses for small purple plums, especially Damsons?
Small purple plums, especially Damsons, are highly valued for their use in preserves, jams, and jellies. Their tartness balances the sweetness of added sugar, resulting in a rich and complex flavor profile. The high pectin content of Damsons also makes them ideal for achieving a good set in preserves.
Beyond preserves, Damsons are frequently incorporated into pies, crumbles, and other baked goods. Their tartness provides a counterpoint to the sweetness of the pastry and any other fillings. They can also be used in savory dishes, such as sauces for meats, where their tangy flavor adds depth and complexity to the dish. Additionally, they are often used to make Damson gin and other fruit-based liquors.
Where are small purple plums typically grown?
Small purple plums, including Damson varieties, are typically grown in temperate regions with cool summers. Historically, they have been widely cultivated in Europe, particularly in countries like England and France. These regions provide the necessary combination of climate and soil conditions for optimal growth and fruit production.
In North America, Damsons are also grown, although perhaps not as extensively as in Europe. Certain areas of the United States and Canada, particularly those with similar temperate climates, provide suitable environments for their cultivation. Specific regions include the Pacific Northwest and parts of the Eastern United States. Local climate variations are crucial for successful cultivation.
Are small purple plums nutritious?
Yes, small purple plums are indeed nutritious. Like other plums, they are a good source of vitamins, particularly Vitamin C and Vitamin K. They also contain dietary fiber, which is beneficial for digestive health, and various antioxidants, which help protect the body against cellular damage.
Furthermore, small purple plums contain minerals such as potassium, which is important for maintaining healthy blood pressure. The deep purple color of the plums indicates the presence of anthocyanins, potent antioxidants that contribute to overall health and well-being. While nutritional content can vary slightly depending on the specific variety and growing conditions, small purple plums generally offer a range of health benefits.