SOUTHERN PEARL

Southern Pearl is a plum variety of early ripening intended for cultivation in the North Caucasus region. The tree is of medium growth with a semi-upright crown of medium density, mainly fruiting on flower-bearing shoots. The trunk bark is brown and peeling; shoots are straight, brown-violet, and hairless. Leaves are of medium size, egg-shaped with a wavy double-serrated edge, green and matte, without glands and hair. Flowers are white, of medium size, arranged in double inflorescences. Fruits have an average mass of about 61 grams, an elongated shape with a rounded apex and a small calyx. The main skin color is yellow with a purple-brown overlay, solid and without subcutaneous dots. The skin is tender, hairless, and easily removed; the flesh is yellow, juicy, fibrous, with a single-chambered cavity and colorless juice. The stone is large, free, flattened, and elongated. The fruit taste is rated 4.7 points, sugar content is 10.1%, acidity is 0.74%, and vitamin C is 3.0 mg%. The yield is average, reaching 30.2 centners per hectare. The variety is distinguished by high transportability and low susceptibility to moniliosis, making it convenient for commercial cultivation and marketing. Fruits are versatile for use—suitable for fresh consumption and processing. Due to early ripening and good storability, Southern Pearl is an attractive choice for gardeners seeking a quality harvest with good taste characteristics.