Description
Flavor Supreme was developed by Zaiger Genetics to deliver bold pluot flavor earlier in the season, without waiting for late-ripening varieties. It quickly earned attention for its deep color, lively acidity, and strong sweet-tart balance that feels distinctly “plum-forward” in character.
The fruit ripens mid-season and is best harvested firm-ripe, when sugars are high but the flesh still holds structure. The dark skin contrasts sharply with the deep red interior, making Flavor Supreme easy to recognize at harvest and visually striking when sliced.
For growers who enjoy brightness and intensity rather than pure sweetness, Flavor Supreme plays an important role in extending pluot season forward while maintaining high eating quality.
Overview
- Mid-season pluot with bold sweet-tart flavor
- Firm, juicy flesh with strong color contrast
- Dark skin and deep red interior
- Large semi-dwarf habit, manageable with pruning
- Requires a pollination partner for consistent crops
Growing Details
Latin Name: Prunus salicina × Prunus armeniaca ‘Flavor Supreme’
Site and Soil: 1/2 day to full day of sun; well-drained soil
Chill Requirement: Approx. 400–500 hours
Hardiness: USDA Zone 5–9
Rootstock: Myro 29C (large semi-dwarf; maintained easily with summer pruning)
Bearing Age: 1–3 years
Size at Maturity: Typically maintained at 12–14 ft tall and wide with pruning
Flowering Time: Mid to late flowering (within plum / pluot types)
Ripening Time: Mid-season; typically July to early August depending on region
Pollination: Pollination required; plant a compatible pluot or Japanese plum within 20–30 feet
Pests & Diseases: Standard plum and pluot considerations; good airflow and routine care are important
Yield: Productive once established; thinning improves size and quality
Additional Notes
- Grower’s Insight: Flavor Supreme is valued for its intensity early in the pluot season—bright acidity, deep color, and a firm bite that doesn’t read mild or flat.
- Regional Insight: In the Puget Sound and other cool, wet-spring regions, pluot bloom can coincide with limited pollinator flight. Planting multiple compatible varieties nearby and supporting early-season pollinators improves fruit set.
- Cool-Spring Pollination Tip: Use early-blooming companion plants, encourage pollinator habitat, and avoid insecticide sprays during bloom to maximize success.
- Harvest promptly at firm-ripe stage for best flavor balance.
- Explore more pluots in our collection: Pluot Trees
