Origin / growing areas

Originally native to China, the peach now grows in all countries with predominantly warm, temperate climates. The most important growing areas are located in the Mediterranean region, the US, South America, Australia and South Africa.

Description

Peaches are stone fruits that grow on trees that reach heights of up to eight metres. Some 130 species have been identified in Germany alone. The fruits are classified according to skin type (smooth or fuzzy) and how easily the pit can be separated from the flesh (freestone or clingstone).

Distinctive features

Peaches contain an abundance of juice and aromatic substances, which is why they are so popular. They also contain a number of minerals (including calcium, phosphorus, iron and potassium), provitamin A and vitamins B1, B2 and C.

Fruit

Most peaches are round (with diameters of five to seven centimetres) and exhibit a clearly visible longitudinal furrow and a recessed stem base. The skin varies in colour from greenish-yellow to red and is usually covered with silky fuzz. The flesh is either white, yellow or (in some varieties) red.

Flavour

People enjoy peaches because of their juicy consistency and the mild, fruity aroma. Their juice is use mainly in fruit beverages.