The ‘Mabel’ nectarine. A fabulous splash of burgundy purple foliage for the home orchard. Stunning pink blossoms in spring are followed by delicious, sweet purple skinned nectarines in February. Very leaf curl resistant and suitable for all regions in New Zealand.
Fruit Characteristics
Fruit Characteristics
- Flavour: Sweet with a subtle tang, very aromatic
- Texture: Firm yet juicy with smooth, tender flesh
- Colour: Red to Purple skin with a white flesh
- Size: Medium-sized, typically around 150–200 grams
- Harvest Time: Mid-season (January to February in New Zealand)
- Storage: Best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for short periods
- Pollination: Self-fertile, meaning it does not require another nectarine or peach tree for fruiting, although planting another variety nearby can improve yields
- Tree Size: Compact, typically reaching 2.5–3 meters tall, making it ideal for smaller gardens or container growing
- Chill Requirement: Requires a moderate amount of winter chill to promote bud development
- Soil & Watering: Prefers well-drained, fertile soil and should be watered regularly, especially during flowering and fruit set
- Pruning: Best pruned in winter to maintain shape, remove dead wood, and encourage strong fruit production
- Fresh Eating: Juicy, sweet, and perfect for snacking
- Baking & Desserts: Ideal for nectarine crumbles, pies, and cakes
- Preserving: Great for making nectarine jams, jellies, and sauces
- Smoothies: A tasty addition to fruit smoothies and juices