Stone fruit or drupes, as they are sometimes called, usually have a single seed in the center of a fleshy outer protective shell (fruit). Stone fruits are nutritious and typically rich in antioxidant vitamins, particularly vitamin C.
Stone fruit pulp is designed to protect the seed as it develops, it also acts as an attractive agent for birds and animals that eat the fruit and shed the seed in their feces, ready to sprout.
For the purposes of this article, we are looking at stone fruits of the Prunus species: apricot, cherry, nectarine, peach, and plum. Plants of the genus Prunus are members of the Rosaceae family.
Apricot (Prunus armeniaca)
Apricots are rich in carbohydrates and fiber. They are low in fat and a good source of protein. Apricots provide an excellent source of vitamin A and vitamin C and are a good source of iron.
Apricots are a seasonal fruit and can be purchased canned or as dried apricots. Apricots are commonly found in healthy bars and slices and make a great fresh snack or can be mixed into puddings and desserts.
Cherry (Prunus avium.)
Nutritionally, cherries are a good source of vitamin C, iron, and carbohydrates.
Cherries are delicious off the tree and can be added to many slices and flavor other dishes. The traditional Christmas pudding would not be the same without cherries.
Nectarine and Peach (Prunus persica)
Nectarines are very similar to peaches. There is also a cross, called Peacharine.
Nectarines and peaches are high in carbohydrates and are a good source of dietary fiber. They are low in fat and low in protein. They are a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C and potassium.
Plum (Prunus sp.)
Plums are a soft-fleshed fruit with a thin skin. There are several species and varieties ranging from cherry-sized plums to large apricot-sized plums. Dried plus are normally sold as plums and are well known for their high fiber content and related digestive system maintenance.
Plums are an excellent source of vitamin A, vitamin C, phosphorus, and potassium.
Interesting facts about drupes
Traditional stone fruit is popular in many countries around the world. It is interesting to note that many fruits that are not normally considered stone fruits actually are. Coconut, walnuts, coffee, olives, and mango are recognized as stone fruits. Aggregate fruits like blackberry and raspberry are a collection of multiple drupes, which form a singular fruit.
Most stone fruit can be dried and sold throughout the year. Dried Apricots, Plums, Coconut (dried), Coffee, Walnuts, Cherries and others. This is ideal for exporting fruit as most fruits begin to spoil quickly when picked.
