The sweet scent of peaches, the slight give of plums, and the stream of juices of pluots. These and more are what shoppers yearn for when they seek out stonefruit this season. Consumers and foodservice operators have given rise to blending sweet with savory applications, and this category is no exception. Give ground for these must-have varieties, and your shoppers will keep coming back…
Flavor: Tangy and sweet, develops a richer sweetness as it ripens
Color: Soft yellow and orange tones, red hints
Season: End of Apr–Mid-Aug
*60%–75% Apricot, 25%–40% Plum
Flavor: Hearty flesh with abundant nectar
Color: Soft yellow and orange notes
Season: End of Apr–May, Jul
Flavor: Similar to white peach
Color: Varies
Season: May
Flavor: Juicy and sweet
Color: Ranging from dark purple to deep red/yellow blends
Season: Apr–End of Nov
*60%–75% Plum, 25%–40% Apricot
Flavor: Fusion of flavor by variety
Color: Purple, red, spotted white, green, and yellow
Season: May–Oct
Flavor: Very sweet, ranging from sugary to more mild with herbal tones
Color: Red and orange, with white and beige coloring
Season: May–Mid-Sep
Flavor: Very sweet, ranging from sugary to more mild with herbal tones
Color: White with a red or pink blush
Season: May–End of Oct
Yellow Nectarine
Flavor: Bright, sweet-tart with a smooth nectar
Color: Yellow with a red and orange blush
Season: End of Apr–Sep
Flavor: Sweet, tangy, and bright, with aromatic nectar
Color: Red and orange with yellow undertones
Season: Apr–End of Oct
Source: Information provided by AndNowUKnow and The Snack stonefruit contributors 
