Spring 2024
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Merton Gem



A heavy cropping red dual purpose plum similar to Victoria.

Origin: London UK, 1923

Pollination: Merton Gem is partially self-fertile and would produce some crop without a pollinator but would benefit considerably from a pollinator.  Pollination partners

Merton Gem plum and gage trees produced to order

Closing date for custom graft orders: 14 Jul 2024

We do not stock this variety, but we can produce custom-graft trees for you. Trees can be grafted on any of the following rootstocks:

FormRootstockPriceQuantity
MaidenAdaptabilSemi-vigorous £39.00
MaidenBromptonVery vigorous £39.00

Custom graft trees would be supplied in December 2025. More details of our custom grafting service here.

History and description of Merton Gem

Merton Gem was raised by M B Crane at the John Innes Institute, Merton, London in 1923 from a cross between Coe's Violet and Victoria. Not named until 1965.

Medium large, oval-oblong fruit. Red, bloomy skin. Yellow, very juicy flesh. Good rich flavour. Clinging stone.

Moderately vigorous somewhat pendulous tree. Heavy regular cropper.

Characteristics of Merton Gem plum and gage trees

UseDual Cul & Des
ColourRed
FlavourSweet
Fruit sizeMedium
Picking time
Season of useSep
Tree vigourModerate
Tree habitUpright-spreading
Fruit-bearing
CroppingHeavy
Disease resistanceSilver Leaf - Resistant
Pollination date21
Pollination groupC
Self-fertilityPartially self-fertile
PollinatorsPollination partners
ParentageVictoria