Heath Cling Peach
Prunus persica ‘Heath Cling’
The fruit of the Heath Cling is very large, sometimes weighing half a pound. The skin is creamy white, sometimes with a red blush, while the flesh is abundant with juice.
In 1813 Jefferson recorded the planting of "4. fine Heath peach stones. Carysbrook," in Monticello's garden nursery. He received them from Wilson Cary of Fluvanna County. Heath Cling is not only considered the first named American cultivar but was also the most highly acclaimed.
The fruit of the Heath Cling is very large, sometimes weighing half a pound, and it terminates in a point at the head. It ripens in September yet is frequently stored and eaten during October and November, a unique feature among peaches. The skin is creamy white, sometimes with a red blush, while the flesh is abundant with juice.
Text adapted from Fruit and Fruit Trees of Monticello by Peter J. Hatch.
In Bloom at Monticello is made possible by support from The Richard D. and Carolyn W. Jacques Foundation.
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