The definitive representation of a "gage," Old Green Gage is often hailed as the most flavorful among various plum varieties. In contrast to the vibrant hues of many plums, the appearance of Old Green Gage fruit is rather unassuming—small and a subdued green, transitioning to a slight yellow when fully ripe. Nevertheless, it is a cultivar cherished for its exceptional flavor, particularly delightful when consumed fresh.
The history of Old Green Gage is captivating. Although gages are typically categorized within the European plum species Prunus domestica, they form a distinctive subgroup—smaller, more spherical, and displaying a green or yellow coloration. Cultivated in France since the Middle Ages, introduced from Italy, the various green-skinned gages in France are collectively referred to as "Reine Claude," in tribute to Queen Claude, consort of Francis I, the ruler of France from 1515 to 1547. Old Green Gage is believed to be synonymous with the French Grosse Reine Claude.
The introduction of Old Green Gage to England is attributed to Sir William Gage in the 18th century. Residing in Bury St. Edmunds, Sir William is said to have obtained a tree from his brother, a Parisian priest. While Sir William is credited with popularizing the English name and the specific variety of Old Green Gage, some evidence suggests that it might have been a reintroduction of a variety already widespread in England, known as Verdoch, potentially brought from Italy during the Middle Ages.
The history of Old Green Gage is captivating. Although gages are typically categorized within the European plum species Prunus domestica, they form a distinctive subgroup—smaller, more spherical, and displaying a green or yellow coloration. Cultivated in France since the Middle Ages, introduced from Italy, the various green-skinned gages in France are collectively referred to as "Reine Claude," in tribute to Queen Claude, consort of Francis I, the ruler of France from 1515 to 1547. Old Green Gage is believed to be synonymous with the French Grosse Reine Claude.
The introduction of Old Green Gage to England is attributed to Sir William Gage in the 18th century. Residing in Bury St. Edmunds, Sir William is said to have obtained a tree from his brother, a Parisian priest. While Sir William is credited with popularizing the English name and the specific variety of Old Green Gage, some evidence suggests that it might have been a reintroduction of a variety already widespread in England, known as Verdoch, potentially brought from Italy during the Middle Ages.
Fruit Ready to Pick: Aug
The definitive representation of a "gage," Old Green Gage is often hailed as the most flavorful among various plum varieties. In contrast to the vibrant hues of many plums, the appearance of Old Green Gage fruit is rather unassuming—small and a subdued green, transitioning to a slight yellow when fully ripe. Nevertheless, it is a cultivar cherished for its exceptional flavor, particularly delightful when consumed fresh.
The history of Old Green Gage is captivating. Although gages are typically categorized within the European plum species Prunus domestica, they form a distinctive subgroup—smaller, more spherical, and displaying a green or yellow coloration. Cultivated in France since the Middle Ages, introduced from Italy, the various green-skinned gages in France are collectively referred to as "Reine Claude," in tribute to Queen Claude, consort of Francis I, the ruler of France from 1515 to 1547. Old Green Gage is believed to be synonymous with the French Grosse Reine Claude.
The introduction of Old Green Gage to England is attributed to Sir William Gage in the 18th century. Residing in Bury St. Edmunds, Sir William is said to have obtained a tree from his brother, a Parisian priest. While Sir William is credited with popularizing the English name and the specific variety of Old Green Gage, some evidence suggests that it might have been a reintroduction of a variety already widespread in England, known as Verdoch, potentially brought from Italy during the Middle Ages.
The history of Old Green Gage is captivating. Although gages are typically categorized within the European plum species Prunus domestica, they form a distinctive subgroup—smaller, more spherical, and displaying a green or yellow coloration. Cultivated in France since the Middle Ages, introduced from Italy, the various green-skinned gages in France are collectively referred to as "Reine Claude," in tribute to Queen Claude, consort of Francis I, the ruler of France from 1515 to 1547. Old Green Gage is believed to be synonymous with the French Grosse Reine Claude.
The introduction of Old Green Gage to England is attributed to Sir William Gage in the 18th century. Residing in Bury St. Edmunds, Sir William is said to have obtained a tree from his brother, a Parisian priest. While Sir William is credited with popularizing the English name and the specific variety of Old Green Gage, some evidence suggests that it might have been a reintroduction of a variety already widespread in England, known as Verdoch, potentially brought from Italy during the Middle Ages.
Fruit Ready to Pick: Aug
Water Needs / Maintence
Moderate/ Moderate
Spaced Apart
3.6-6.4m (12-15ft)
Pollination Group
3
Overall Height
3.6 - 4.5m (12-15ft)
Species
Prunus domestica
Root Stock
Fruits ready to be picked
Aug
