Prunus persica Grosse Mignonne - Peach Tree

The 'Grosse Mignonne' Peach is an ancient self-fertile variety, very vigorous and offering good disease resistance. Appreciated for a long time for the very red skin of its fruits, which easily detach from its white, juicy and fragrant flesh. This peach reaches ripeness quite late in the season, at the end of August or beginning of September. The added bonus of this variety: the pink flowering brings undeniable decorative interest.

The species name 'Persica' was given to the peach, which was thought to originate from Persia. In reality, all cultivated forms originate from northern China. Its appearance in Europe took place in the 6th century and experienced strong development in the 19th century.

Like many fruit trees, the 'Grosse Mignonne' Peach appreciates light, rich and deep soils, it does not tolerate excess water or heavy and compact soils. It is a tree of very good vigor. It remains of modest size, rarely exceeding 4m (13ft) in height. A particularity of this variety is the vibrant pink flowering that occurs in April. It is abundant and appears before the young leaves develop. Being self-fertile, this peach does not need the presence of another variety to bear fruit. The deciduous foliage is bright green and emits a slight almond scent.

This variety can be planted almost anywhere on the territory, provided it has a beautiful sunny exposure and is sheltered from cold winds north of the Loire. The fruiting results in beautiful red and satin peaches. The white and juicy flesh is red around the stone. The sweet taste is highly fragrant. Peaches can be enjoyed raw, cooked, sweetened, salted, flambéed, frozen or deglazed. They pair very well with wine and certain meats, such as duck. They can be found in many recipes, particularly for jams, compotes, pastries... Surrounded by a few bulbs, they will accompany the beginning of spring with freshness and cheerfulness.