Damsons
Damson trees have been around in the UK for centuries and can be regarded as native in many parts. We offer three reliable hardy Damson tree varieties for sale that mostly fruit into September, the heart of the fruit picking time. All grown on moderate vigour St Julien A rootstock. They all have the advantage of being self fertile.
We have removed Farleigh & Shropshire Prune from availability for now as stock has become very low and don't what to ovesell. Once we are close to dispatching everyones Damsons and can see there are still some available we will make available again
Discount information - the following discounts apply on total order value, excluding carriage - 5% on orders £80+ 10% on orders £160+
Damson trees are dispatched between late November and March when dormant
However you are welcome to order now. We will then reserve and be in contact to arrange delivery or collection as soon as we can.
Damsons - further information
Originally damsons came from around Damascus, Syria hence the name. Damson trees have been around in the UK for centuries and can be regarded as native in many parts. The Crusaders are said to have brought back damson stones to try in England. Damson trees are often found around sites of Roman camps so maybe the Romans introduced them.
Shropshire Prune is the closest to the original Damson brought back from the middle east and may well have bred with the native Sloe to become distinctive to areas where Damson trees have been much grown, such as Westmoreland. In other parts where plums have and are grown Damson trees are grown in the hedgerows around the orchards providing shelter to the more delicate plums and help with pollination.
Damsons are used to make a variety of products - jams, jellies, chutneys, wine and Damson Gin. In the past the skins of the fruit were used to manufacture purple dye.
