The tree is attractive and upright with willowy branches. It is very vigorous and productive. Some growers report that this tree is self-fertile, but we recommend a pollen partner for optimal cropping. 

Ripening early-mid September, the fruit is medium sized and oval with a purple skin. It is freestone, very sweet, juicy, and highly flavored. This plum is delicious for fresh eating or drying. 

Imperial Epineuse was discovered growing in an abandoned monastary in Lot Valley, France around 1870. It was brought to America in 1883 by Felix Gillet. From its humble origins, Imperial Epineuse has achieved fame for its outstanding flavor; it is used at the English National Fruit Trials as the standard by which the flavor of other plums are rated. 

Images from USDA Pomological Watercolor Collection, Special Collections, National Agricultural Library, Beltsville, Maryland.