Prunus persica Sauzee King - Nectarine Peach Tree

The Sauzee King® Nectarine is a self-fertile, vigorous and highly productive variety. It produces flat nectarines with white, juicy, highly fragrant and sweet flesh. These are large fruits, about 8 cm (3in) in diameter, with red skin. The harvest takes place at ripeness from mid-July to early August. It is a hardy variety that withstands cold well.

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. The Nectarine is a natural mutation of the peach that is believed to have occurred in the 16th century. The Sauzee King® Nectarine is an American mutation of the original Asian peach, obtained in the USA.

Like many fruit trees, the Sauzee King® Nectarine appreciates light, rich and deep soils. It does not tolerate excess water or heavy, compact soils well. It is a tree of good vigor, very productive and hardy down to -15°C (5°F). Its semi-erect habit indicates a tree with a tall trunk that has many branches with vertical growth, giving it a slender appearance. Its deciduous foliage is bright green and has a slight almond scent. Its leaves are long, 8 to 15 cm (3 to 6in) in length and 3 to 4 cm (1 to 2in) wide, with a short petiole. Its white-pink flowering occurs in March. The flowers are hermaphroditic and self-fertile. Reserve a sunny spot for it that is protected from the wind.
Fruiting results in flattened, large-sized, red fruits that are ready to be harvested from mid-July. This tree does not require too much maintenance. It withstands severe pruning, but not every year.

Nectarines can be enjoyed raw, cooked, sweet, savory, flambéed, glazed or deglazed. They pair very well with wine and certain meats, such as duck. They can be found in many recipes, including jams, compotes, pastries.