What is damson?

Damson is a type of small, oval-shaped fruit that belongs to the plum family. It has a distinctive dark purple or blue-black skin and greenish-yellow flesh that is tart, juicy, and slightly astringent. Damsons are often used for making jams, jellies, preserves, and desserts because of their high pectin content. They are also commonly used in the production of damson gin, a traditional British liqueur.

Damson trees are relatively small, reaching heights of around 15-20 feet, and are known for their hardiness and tolerance to colder temperatures. The fruit is typically harvested in late summer and early fall, with peak ripeness occurring in late August to early September.

While damsons are less commonly eaten fresh compared to other plum varieties, they offer a unique and distinctive flavor profile that has made them beloved by many. However, they can be challenging to find in supermarkets and are often only available at farmers' markets or specialty food stores.