Prunus Insititia

Other names: Prunus domestica subsp. insititia

The common plum, scientifically known as Prunus Insititia, is a shrub or tree in the rose family. It is also known among humans as Prunus domestica subsp. insititia, but is most commonly seen under the common names of sloe or cherry. It is native to Europe and Western Asia and flowers in April to May. Its fruits, the spines, are blue, blue-purple or yellow, bitter-sweet and range in size from 2 to 4 cm. Areas of high plum production are mainly eastern and southern Europe.

The plum is widely used in food production. For example, its fruit is processed into sloe brandy, which is popular mainly in the Czech Republic and Slovakia. The tradition of producing sloe brandy dates back to the Middle Ages. In addition to brandy, the fruit is also used to make jams, fruit juices, liqueurs, wines and various types of confectionery. Sloes can also be found in pickled salami or as a component of fruit teas. In addition to the fruit, the flowers of the plum tree are also used to add flavour to honey and are also an ingredient in some herbal teas. The plum tree is therefore widely used and its fruit is characterised by its specific taste.