Prunus persica 'Grosse Mignonne' (Peach)

Common name: Grosse Mignonne Peach

Description: This exceptional heritage peach variety dates back to 1667 and is considered one of the finest and oldest peach cultivars, originally described by Merlet under the name 'Pêche Veloutée' (Velvety Peach). The tree produces large, exquisite fruits with delicate, silky skin that feels velvety to the touch. The flesh is tender, greeny-white in colour becoming pinker towards the centre, creating an attractive colour gradient throughout the fruit. The flesh has a melting texture that is very juicy and sweet with a delicious, distinctive perfume that sets this variety apart from modern cultivars. The tree produces typical fragrant pink peach blossoms in spring, creating a beautiful early-season display before the leaves emerge.

Other benefits: heritage variety with exceptional flavour and perfume, melliferous plant attracting beneficial insects, one of the finest historical peach varieties still in cultivation

Wildlife attraction: bees, butterflies, and other pollinators visit the fragrant spring blossoms; described as melliferous

Height & spread (approx.) at 10 years: 3-4m x 3-4m

Position: full sun for best fruit production and colour development; benefits from shelter from strong winds

Soil pH: adaptable to various well-drained soils; performs best in slightly acidic to neutral conditions (pH 6.0-7.0)

Moisture: regular watering during growing season, particularly when fruits are developing; requires well-drained soil to prevent root problems

Winter hardiness: cold hardy to approximately -15°C; suitable for most UK growing regions

Fruit details: Large fruits with delicate, silky, velvety skin; tender greeny-white flesh becoming pinker towards the centre; melting texture that is very juicy and sweet with distinctive perfume; heritage variety from 1667; freestone variety given the melting flesh characteristic typical of premium eating peaches