Reine-Claude Rose de Marcoing

‘Reine-Claude Rose de Marcoing’ is a rare heritage variety from the Cambrésis, preserved by the Centre régional de ressources génétiques des Hauts-de-France.

The original tree was rediscovered in the former rectory garden at Marcoing, in the Nord department, and was subsequently passed to the CRRG by nurseryman Christian Delsert. The first fruit from the accession preserved at Villeneuve-d’Ascq was observed in 2016.

The fruit is a rounded greengage-type plum, remarkable for its skin, which develops a pink to purplish-red colour beneath a pale bloom. Its yellow flesh is juicy, sweet and pleasantly aromatic when harvested fully ripe.

Under northern French conditions, harvest probably takes place during the second half of August. The fruit is mainly intended for eating fresh, but is also suitable for tarts, jams and compotes.

This still poorly documented variety is primarily of considerable heritage value. Its propagation helps preserve a local plum directly connected to the fruit-growing history of Marcoing and the Cambrésis.