Peach

Origin / Growing regions:
Originally from China, peaches are now grown in all regions of the world where warm, moderate climate conditions prevail. The most important growing areas are located in the Mediterranean region, the U.S., South America, Australia and South Africa.

Description:
Peaches are stone fruits which grow on trees that reach heights of between one and eight metres. One hundred and thirty varieties have been identified in Germany alone. Peaches are classified according to skin type (fuzzy or smooth – nectarines) and how easily the pit can be separated from the pulp (freestone or clingstone).

Fruit:
Most peaches are round (approximately five to seven centimetres in diameter) and exhibit a marked longitudinal furrow and an indented stem root. The colour of the skin varies from greenish-yellow to red, and the fruits are ordinarily covered by silky fuzz. The pulp may be white or yellow, and some varieties (such as the vineyard peach) have red pulp.

Flavour:
Peaches are treasured largely for their juiciness and their mild, fruity aroma.

Distinctive characteristics:
Peaches contain abundant juice and aromatic substances, which is what makes them so popular. They also contain minerals (calcium, phosphorus, iron and potassium) as well as provitamin A and vitamins B1, B2 and C.