Plum – Cacanska Lepotica – Prunus domestica

The plum (Prunus domestica) is one of the most well-known and popular fruit trees, particularly widespread in Hungary. The Cacanska Lepotica variety stands out due to its rich flavor, excellent yield, and resistance. Below, this variety is detailed.

### Variety Description

**1. Appearance and Characteristics:**
The Cacanska Lepotica is a medium-sized tree that typically reaches a height of 4-5 meters. The crown of the tree is wide and round, with dense foliage that adds aesthetic value to gardens. The young branches are smooth and green, while the older branches become brown and cracked over time. The leaves are large, oval, and shiny green, and are slightly wavy. In spring, beautiful white or light pink flowers adorn the trees, appearing before the leaves. Blooming usually begins at the end of April, and the nectar-rich flowers attract numerous bees, aiding in pollination.

**2. Fruit:**
The fruits of the Cacanska Lepotica are large, typically 5-7 cm long and oval in shape. Their skin is smooth and shiny, with a deep purple or dark blue color, sometimes displaying a yellowish hue. The flesh is yellowish or greenish-yellow, juicy, and has a sweet, pleasantly tart flavor. The ripening period is set for early August, making them ideal for fresh consumption, but they are also excellent for processing into jams, syrups, and pastries.

**3. Cultivation and Care:**
The Cacanska Lepotica thrives best in sunny locations that provide sufficient light and warmth for fruit development. The soil should have good drainage and be rich in nutrients. After planting, it is important to regularly water the young trees, especially during dry periods. Pruning is essential to shape the crown of the tree, promote airflow, and ensure optimal distribution of the fruits. Spring pruning improves the health of the tree and increases the yield.

**4. Diseases and Pests:**
The Cacanska Lepotica is resistant to the most common diseases, but it can be locally susceptible to leaf spots, Monilia, and fruit rot. Aphids and plum fruit flies also pose a threat to the fruits. To promote the health of the trees, regular inspections and the application of necessary plant protection products are important. Biological control methods, such as the use of neem oil, can help manage pests.

**5. Harvest:**
The fruits of the Cacanska Lepotica typically ripen in early August. The ripeness can be assessed based on color and firmness; ripe plums should feel a little softer and be more colorful. The harvest is usually done by hand, ensuring that the fruits are not damaged, as damaged fruits spoil quickly.

**6. Uses:**
The Cacanska Lepotica can not only be consumed fresh but also offers many other uses that provide a variety of culinary delights:

- **Fresh Consumption:** The flavor of the fruits is sweet and tart, making them an excellent snack for school, the office, or at home. They are a rich source of vitamins for both children and adults.

- **Jam and Preserves:** The Cacanska Lepotica is a popular ingredient for making jams. Its rich flavor and juiciness make the jam extremely aromatic and sweet, ideal for baked goods or pancakes.

- **Desserts:** The plum is a fantastic ingredient for cakes, tarts, and muffins. With fresh plums, delicious cakes or crumbles can be prepared that the whole family will enjoy.

- **Dried Fruits:** The Cacanska Lepotica can also be dried to preserve it for a long time, making it an excellent healthy snack or ingredient in mueslis, salads, and other dishes.

- **Juices and Smoothies:** Freshly squeezed plum juice or smoothies are particularly popular, as the natural sweetness and flavor of the fruit shine through in these beverages.