40 Types of Peach Trees – (The Complete List With Pictures)

by

Peach trees, scientifically Prunus persica, are deciduous fruit trees native to China, thriving in warm, temperate climates. They typically grow 10–20 feet tall, valued for both their juicy fruits and ornamental spring blossoms. These trees are widely cultivated in orchards and home gardens globally.

The fruit of peach trees is a drupe, featuring fuzzy skin, juicy flesh, and a single pit. Flesh colors range from yellow to white, with flavors varying from sweet to tangy. Fruits ripen in summer, ideal for fresh eating, canning, or baking, though pits are toxic if consumed. Peaches and nectarines are the same species, though they are regarded commercially as different fruits.

The tree is regarded as handsome and is planted in gardens for its springtime blooms in addition to fruit production. The peach tree is relatively short lived, usually not exceeding twenty years of age. However, the peach fruit is regarded as a symbol of longevity in several East Asian cultures.

Leaves are lance-shaped, 7–15 cm long, with serrated edges, and dark green, providing a lush canopy. They emerge after spring flowering, with new growth often reddish. Foliage drops in fall, revealing smooth gray bark with lenticels.

Flowers bloom in early spring, typically pink, 1–2 cm wide, and five-petaled, creating a striking display. Most trees are self-pollinating, but cross-pollination can boost yields. Blooms are sensitive to late frosts, impacting fruit set.

Peach trees require 200–1,000 chill hours below 45°F for dormancy, depending on the region. They prefer well-drained, slightly acidic soil (pH 6.0–6.5) and full sun. Regular pruning maintains an open shape and enhances fruit production.

Ecologically, peach trees support pollinators like bees and provide fruit for wildlife. They’re susceptible to diseases like peach leaf curl and pests like borers, requiring careful management. Their beauty and bounty make them a garden favorite.

The peach is very popular; only the apple and pear have higher production amounts for temperate fruits. In 2023, China produced 65% of the world total of peaches and nectarines. Other leading countries, such as Spain, Turkey, Italy, the U.S., and Iran lag far behind China, with none producing more than 5% of the world total.

Types of Peach Trees

Elberta

A classic freestone heirloom, widely grown in the U.S., particularly Georgia, reaching 12–15 feet tall and wide. Known for large, sweet peaches, it’s ideal for fresh eating, canning, and pies. Ripens late July to August. Popular since the 1880s, it’s a reliable backyard and commercial variety.

Identifying Characteristics:

  • Fruit: Medium to large (2.5–3 inches diameter), golden yellow skin with 50–70% red blush, moderately fuzzy. Yellow flesh, juicy, sweet with slight tang, pit separates easily.
  • Leaves: Lanceolate, 7–15 cm long, 2–4 cm wide, serrated edges, dark green, slightly curled inward, glossy upper surface.
  • Flowers: Bright pink, five-petaled, 1–2 cm wide, clustered, bloom early spring (March).
  • Growth Habit: Vigorous, upright with spreading canopy, smooth gray bark with lenticels, moderately dense branching.
  • Chill Hours: 800–950, suited for zones 5–8.
  • Note: Susceptible to peach leaf curl; requires regular pruning for air circulation.

Belle of Georgia

A hardy freestone heirloom from the 1870s, growing 15–20 feet tall and 12–15 feet wide. Produces large, white-fleshed peaches with sweet, tropical flavor, great for fresh eating or canning. Ripens mid-August. Known for cold tolerance and heavy yields.

Identifying Characteristics:

  • Fruit: Large (2.5–3.5 inches), white to pale yellow skin with 30–50% red blush, fuzzy. White flesh, juicy, sweet with mild tang, red tint near pit, freestone.
  • Leaves: 8–12 cm long, 2–3 cm wide, lanceolate, finely serrated, medium green, slightly drooping.
  • Flowers: Vibrant pink, 1.5–2 cm wide, cup-shaped, profuse, early to mid-spring.
  • Growth Habit: Upright, rounded crown, moderately vigorous, gray bark with reddish undertones on young branches.
  • Chill Hours: 800–850, zones 5–8.
  • Note: Bud-hardy, resistant to brown rot, thrives in colder climates.

Red Haven

A popular freestone variety, growing 12–15 feet tall and wide, valued for consistent yields and medium-sized fruit. Widely planted in the U.S., it’s versatile for fresh eating, baking, and freezing. Ripens mid-July. A benchmark for commercial orchards.

Identifying Characteristics:

  • Fruit: Medium (2–2.5 inches), yellow skin with 60–80% bright red blush, fuzzy. Firm, yellow flesh, sweet with balanced acidity, pit separates cleanly.
  • Leaves: 7–10 cm long, 2–3 cm wide, lanceolate, serrated with reddish glands at teeth tips, dark green, glossy.
  • Flowers: Light pink, 1–1.5 cm wide, slightly cupped, mid spring bloom.
  • Growth Habit: Compact, upright, dense canopy, smooth reddish-gray bark aging to gray.
  • Chill Hours: 800–900, zones 5–8.
  • Note: Cold-hardy, resistant to leaf curl, needs thinning for larger fruit.

Contender

A freestone variety, growing 12–15 feet tall and 10–12 feet wide, bred for cold hardiness and late blooming to avoid spring frosts. Yields sweet, juicy peaches, ideal for fresh eating or preserves. Ripens late August. Popular in northern regions.

Identifying Characteristics:

  • Fruit: Medium to large (2.5–3 inches), yellow skin with 50–70% red blush, fuzzy. Bright yellow flesh, firm, sweet with mild tartness, freestone pit.
  • Leaves: 8–12 cm long, 2–4 cm wide, lanceolate, serrated, medium green, slightly curled.
  • Flowers: Pink, 1.5–2 cm wide, abundant, late spring bloom (April).
  • Growth Habit: Upright, moderately spreading, open canopy, gray bark with fine fissures.
  • Chill Hours: 950–1,050, zones 4–8.
  • Note: Frost-resistant buds, good disease resistance, heavy producer.

O’Henry

A late-season freestone variety, growing 12–15 feet tall and wide, known for large, flavorful peaches with vibrant color. Excellent for fresh eating, drying, or canning. Ripens mid-August. Popular in California and southern states.

Identifying Characteristics:

  • Fruit: Large (3–3.5 inches), yellow skin with 70–90% red blush, fuzzy. Deep yellow flesh, firm, sweet with rich flavor, pit separates easily.
  • Leaves: 8–14 cm long, 2–3 cm wide, lanceolate, serrated, dark green, slightly wavy.
  • Flowers: Deep pink, 1.5–2 cm wide, showy, mid spring.
  • Growth Habit: Vigorous, upright with broad canopy, gray bark with reddish new growth.
  • Chill Hours: 750–850, zones 6–9.
  • Note: Needs regular thinning; susceptible to bacterial spot in humid climates.

Donut (Stark Saturn)

A unique flat-shaped freestone variety, growing 10–12 feet tall and wide, often called “saucer” or “peento” peaches. Sweet, white-fleshed fruit is great for fresh eating. Ripens early July. Ideal for small gardens or containers.

Identifying Characteristics:

  • Fruit: Small to medium (2–2.5 inches wide, 1 inch tall), flattened, white skin with red blush, fuzzy. White flesh, juicy, very sweet, small pit.
  • Leaves: 7–10 cm long, 2–3 cm wide, lanceolate, serrated, medium green, glossy.
  • Flowers: Pale pink, 1–1.5 cm wide, delicate, early spring.
  • Growth Habit: Compact, rounded, dense, smooth gray bark with lenticels.
  • Chill Hours: 400–500, zones 5–8.
  • Note: Low chill requirement, good for mild climates, prone to cracking in wet weather.

Halehaven

A freestone variety, growing 12–15 feet tall and wide, valued for its juicy, flavorful peaches and good disease resistance. Suitable for fresh eating, canning, or freezing. Ripens mid-July. Common in home orchards.

Identifying Characteristics:

  • Fruit: Medium (2.5–3 inches), yellow skin with 60–80% red blush, fuzzy. Yellow flesh, soft, sweet with tangy undertones, freestone pit.
  • Leaves: 8–12 cm long, 2–3 cm wide, lanceolate, serrated, dark green, slightly drooping.
  • Flowers: Pink, 1–1.5 cm wide, clustered, mid spring.
  • Growth Habit: Upright, spreading, moderately dense, gray bark with fine ridges.
  • Chill Hours: 800–900, zones 5–8.
  • Note: Resistant to brown rot, needs thinning for optimal size.

Frost

A semi-freestone variety, growing 12–15 feet tall and wide, bred for resistance to peach leaf curl. Produces medium-sized, tangy peaches, good for fresh eating or cooking. Ripens early July. Ideal for organic growers.

Identifying Characteristics:

  • Fruit: Medium (2–2.5 inches), yellow skin with light red blush, fuzzy. Yellow flesh, firm, tangy-sweet, pit slightly adheres.
  • Leaves: 7–11 cm long, 2–3 cm wide, lanceolate, serrated, medium green, resistant to curling.
  • Flowers: Light pink, 1–1.5 cm wide, sparse, mid spring.
  • Growth Habit: Upright, open canopy, smooth gray bark with reddish twigs.
  • Chill Hours: 700–800, zones 5–8.
  • Note: Excellent disease resistance, moderate yields.

Babcock

A low-chill freestone variety, growing 10–12 feet tall and wide, popular in mild climates like California. Produces sweet, white-fleshed peaches, perfect for fresh eating. Ripens early June. Great for small spaces.

Identifying Characteristics:

  • Fruit: Small to medium (2–2.5 inches), white skin with red blush, lightly fuzzy. White flesh, soft, very sweet, low acidity, freestone pit.
  • Leaves: 7–10 cm long, 2–3 cm wide, lanceolate, serrated, light green, glossy.
  • Flowers: Bright pink, 1.5–2 cm wide, showy, early spring.
  • Growth Habit: Compact, rounded, dense, gray bark with fine lenticels.
  • Chill Hours: 200–300, zones 6–9.
  • Note: Early ripening, sensitive to late frosts, good for warm regions.

Suncrest

A freestone variety, growing 12–15 feet tall and wide, known for large, flavorful peaches with classic peach flavor. Ideal for fresh eating, canning, or drying. Ripens late July. Popular in commercial orchards.

Identifying Characteristics:

  • Fruit: Large (2.5–3 inches), yellow skin with 50–70% red blush, fuzzy. Yellow flesh, firm, sweet with rich tang, pit separates easily.
  • Leaves: 8–13 cm long, 2–4 cm wide, lanceolate, serrated, dark green, slightly wavy.
  • Flowers: Pink, 1.5–2 cm wide, abundant, mid spring.
  • Growth Habit: Vigorous, upright with spreading canopy, gray bark with reddish new growth.
  • Chill Hours: 700–800, zones 5–8.
  • Note: Heavy yields, needs thinning, susceptible to peach scab.

Cresthaven

A late-season freestone variety, growing 12–15 feet tall and wide, valued for firm, flavorful fruit and cold hardiness. Great for fresh eating, canning, or freezing. Ripens mid-August. Reliable in northern climates.

Identifying Characteristics:

  • Fruit: Medium to large (2.5–3 inches), yellow skin with red blush, fuzzy. Yellow flesh, firm, sweet with slight tartness, freestone pit.
  • Leaves: 8–12 cm long, 2–3 cm wide, lanceolate, serrated, medium green, glossy.
  • Flowers: Light pink, 1–1.5 cm wide, clustered, mid spring.
  • Growth Habit: Upright, moderately spreading, dense canopy, gray bark with fine fissures.
  • Chill Hours: 800–900, zones 5–8.
  • Note: Resistant to bacterial spot, heavy producer.

Indian Blood Cling

A clingstone heirloom, growing 15–20 feet tall and wide, known for its deep red flesh and tart flavor. Used for preserves, baking, or drying. Ripens late August. Historically significant, grown by Native Americans.

Identifying Characteristics:

  • Fruit: Medium (2–2.5 inches), dark red skin with minimal fuzz. Reddish-purple flesh, tart, juicy, pit adheres tightly.
  • Leaves: 8–14 cm long, 2–4 cm wide, lanceolate, serrated, dark green, slightly curled.
  • Flowers: Deep pink, 1.5–2 cm wide, showy, early spring.
  • Growth Habit: Vigorous, upright with open canopy, gray bark with reddish branches.
  • Chill Hours: 800–900, zones 5–8.
  • Note: Unique flavor, susceptible to brown rot.

Early Elberta (Gleason)

A freestone sport of Elberta, growing 12–15 feet tall and wide, ripens 1–2 weeks earlier (early July). Produces similar large, sweet peaches, ideal for fresh eating or canning. Popular for early harvests.

Identifying Characteristics:

  • Fruit: Medium to large (2.5–3 inches), yellow skin with red blush, fuzzy. Yellow flesh, sweet, juicy, freestone pit.
  • Leaves: 7–13 cm long, 2–3 cm wide, lanceolate, serrated, dark green, glossy.
  • Flowers: Pink, 1–2 cm wide, abundant, early spring.
  • Growth Habit: Upright, spreading, moderately dense, gray bark with lenticels.
  • Chill Hours: 800–850, zones 5–8.
  • Note: Similar to Elberta but earlier, needs frost protection.

Rio Grande

A low-chill freestone variety, growing 10–12 feet tall and wide, suited for warm climates like Texas or Florida. Produces large, tangy peaches, good for fresh eating or cooking. Ripens early June.

Identifying Characteristics:

  • Fruit: Large (2.5–3 inches), yellow skin with light red blush, fuzzy. Yellow flesh, firm, sweet-tart, freestone pit.
  • Leaves: 7–11 cm long, 2–3 cm wide, lanceolate, serrated, light green, slightly wavy.
  • Flowers: Bright pink, 1.5–2 cm wide, early spring.
  • Growth Habit: Compact, rounded, dense, smooth gray bark.
  • Chill Hours: 200–300, zones 7–9.
  • Note: Thrives in mild winters, sensitive to late frosts.

Flordaking

A low-chill clingstone variety, growing 10–12 feet tall and wide, developed for subtropical climates like Florida. Yields medium-sized, sweet peaches, ideal for fresh eating. Ripens early May. Perfect for warm regions.

Identifying Characteristics:

  • Fruit: Medium (2–2.5 inches), yellow skin with red blush, fuzzy. Yellow flesh, juicy, sweet, pit adheres.
  • Leaves: 7–10 cm long, 2–3 cm wide, lanceolate, serrated, medium green, glossy.
  • Flowers: Pink, 1–1.5 cm wide, abundant, very early spring.
  • Growth Habit: Compact, upright, moderately dense, gray bark with reddish twigs.
  • Chill Hours: 150–200, zones 8–9.
  • Note: Early ripening, good for southern gardens, prone to fruit split in wet conditions.

White Lady

A freestone white-fleshed variety, growing 12–15 feet tall and wide, prized for its low-acid, sweet peaches. Ideal for fresh eating due to its dessert-like flavor. Ripens mid-July. Popular in home orchards and markets for its delicate taste.

Identifying Characteristics:

  • Fruit: Medium (2–2.5 inches diameter), white skin with 50–70% red blush, lightly fuzzy. White flesh, juicy, very sweet with minimal tartness, freestone pit.
  • Leaves: 7–11 cm long, 2–3 cm wide, lanceolate, serrated edges, medium green, glossy, slightly curled.
  • Flowers: Pale pink, 1–1.5 cm wide, delicate, mid spring (March–April).
  • Growth Habit: Upright, moderately spreading, dense canopy, smooth gray bark with reddish twigs.
  • Chill Hours: 800–900, suited for zones 5–8.
  • Note: Susceptible to brown rot in humid conditions; requires thinning for larger fruit.

Reliance

A freestone variety, growing 12–15 feet tall and 10–12 feet wide, bred for extreme cold hardiness, making it ideal for northern climates. Produces medium-sized, sweet peaches for fresh eating or canning. Ripens late July. Reliable in harsh winters.

Identifying Characteristics:

  • Fruit: Medium (2–2.5 inches), yellow skin with 40–60% red blush, fuzzy. Yellow flesh, soft, sweet with mild tang, pit separates easily.
  • Leaves: 8–12 cm long, 2–3 cm wide, lanceolate, finely serrated, dark green, slightly drooping.
  • Flowers: Light pink, 1.5–2 cm wide, abundant, late spring to avoid frosts.
  • Growth Habit: Compact, upright with rounded crown, gray bark with fine fissures.
  • Chill Hours: 1,000–1,100, zones 4–8.
  • Note: Hardy to -25°F, moderate disease resistance, needs frost protection for blooms.

Springcrest

An early-season freestone variety, growing 10–12 feet tall and wide, known for its early ripening and vibrant fruit. Good for fresh eating and preserves. Ripens early June. Suited for milder climates with moderate chill requirements.

Identifying Characteristics:

  • Fruit: Small to medium (2–2.5 inches), yellow skin with 60–80% bright red blush, fuzzy. Yellow flesh, firm, sweet with tangy notes, freestone pit.
  • Leaves: 7–10 cm long, 2–3 cm wide, lanceolate, serrated, medium green, glossy.
  • Flowers: Bright pink, 1–1.5 cm wide, showy, early spring (February–March).
  • Growth Habit: Compact, rounded, moderately dense, smooth gray bark with lenticels.
  • Chill Hours: 600–700, zones 6–8.
  • Note: Early bloomer, sensitive to late frosts, good for small gardens.

Loring

A freestone variety, growing 12–15 feet tall and wide, valued for large, flavorful peaches and attractive appearance. Excellent for fresh eating, canning, or pies. Ripens mid-August. Widely grown in commercial and home orchards.

Identifying Characteristics:

  • Fruit: Large (2.5–3.5 inches), yellow skin with 50–70% red blush, fuzzy. Yellow flesh, juicy, sweet with balanced acidity, pit separates cleanly.
  • Leaves: 8–14 cm long, 2–4 cm wide, lanceolate, serrated, dark green, slightly wavy.
  • Flowers: Pink, 1.5–2 cm wide, clustered, mid spring.
  • Growth Habit: Vigorous, upright with spreading canopy, gray bark with reddish new growth.
  • Chill Hours: 750–850, zones 5–8.
  • Note: Heavy yields, prone to peach scab, requires regular pruning.

Desertgold

A low-chill semi-clingstone variety, growing 10–12 feet tall and wide, developed for arid, warm climates like Arizona or Southern California. Produces early, tangy peaches for fresh eating. Ripens mid-May. Ideal for desert regions.

Identifying Characteristics:

  • Fruit: Medium (2–2.5 inches), yellow skin with light red blush, fuzzy. Yellow flesh, firm, sweet-tart, pit slightly adheres.
  • Leaves: 7–10 cm long, 2–3 cm wide, lanceolate, serrated, light green, glossy.
  • Flowers: Bright pink, 1–1.5 cm wide, early spring (February).
  • Growth Habit: Compact, rounded, dense, smooth gray bark with reddish twigs.
  • Chill Hours: 200–300, zones 7–9.
  • Note: Drought-tolerant, early ripening, susceptible to fruit splitting.

Galaxy

A flat-shaped freestone variety, growing 10–12 feet tall and wide, known as a “donut” or “peento” peach. Sweet, white-fleshed fruit is perfect for fresh eating. Ripens early July. Popular for its unique shape and compact size.

Identifying Characteristics:

  • Fruit: Medium (2.5–3 inches wide, 1 inch tall), flattened, white skin with 50–70% red blush, fuzzy. White flesh, juicy, very sweet, small freestone pit.
  • Leaves: 7–11 cm long, 2–3 cm wide, lanceolate, serrated, medium green, slightly curled.
  • Flowers: Pale pink, 1–1.5 cm wide, delicate, early spring.
  • Growth Habit: Compact, rounded, moderately dense, gray bark with lenticels.
  • Chill Hours: 400–500, zones 5–8.
  • Note: Good for containers, prone to cracking in wet weather, low maintenance.

Madison

A freestone variety, growing 12–15 feet tall and wide, bred for cold hardiness and late blooming to avoid frost damage. Produces medium-sized, sweet peaches for fresh eating or canning. Ripens late August. Suited for northern climates.

Identifying Characteristics:

  • Fruit: Medium (2–2.5 inches), yellow skin with 40–60% red blush, fuzzy. Yellow flesh, firm, sweet with mild tartness, freestone pit.
  • Leaves: 8–12 cm long, 2–3 cm wide, lanceolate, serrated, dark green, glossy.
  • Flowers: Light pink, 1.5–2 cm wide, late spring bloom (April).
  • Growth Habit: Upright, moderately spreading, open canopy, gray bark with fine ridges.
  • Chill Hours: 850–950, zones 4–8.
  • Note: Frost-resistant, good disease resistance, reliable in cold regions.

Veteran

A freestone variety, growing 12–15 feet tall and wide, known for its consistent yields even in challenging conditions. Produces medium-sized, flavorful peaches for fresh eating or preserves. Ripens late August. Popular in Canada and northern U.S.

Identifying Characteristics:

  • Fruit: Medium (2–2.5 inches), yellow skin with 50–70% red blush, fuzzy. Yellow flesh, soft, sweet with tangy undertones, pit separates easily.
  • Leaves: 7–11 cm long, 2–3 cm wide, lanceolate, serrated, medium green, slightly drooping.
  • Flowers: Pink, 1–1.5 cm wide, clustered, mid to late spring.
  • Growth Habit: Upright, rounded, moderately dense, gray bark with reddish twigs.
  • Chill Hours: 900–1,000, zones 5–8.
  • Note: Cold-hardy, tolerant of wet soils, needs thinning for larger fruit.

Nectar

A white-fleshed freestone variety, growing 12–15 feet tall and wide, prized for its sweet, low-acid peaches. Ideal for fresh eating or salads due to its floral flavor. Ripens mid-July. Popular in home gardens for its taste.

Identifying Characteristics:

  • Fruit: Medium to large (2.5–3 inches), white skin with 60–80% red blush, lightly fuzzy. White flesh, juicy, very sweet, freestone pit.
  • Leaves: 8–12 cm long, 2–3 cm wide, lanceolate, serrated, light green, glossy.
  • Flowers: Pale pink, 1.5–2 cm wide, showy, mid spring.
  • Growth Habit: Vigorous, upright with spreading canopy, smooth gray bark.
  • Chill Hours: 700–800, zones 5–8.
  • Note: Susceptible to bacterial spot, requires good air circulation.

Redtop

A freestone variety, growing 12–15 feet tall and wide, known for its bright red skin and sweet fruit. Good for fresh eating, canning, or pies. Ripens mid-July. Reliable in diverse climates with moderate chill needs.

Identifying Characteristics:

  • Fruit: Medium (2–2.5 inches), yellow skin with 70–90% red blush, fuzzy. Yellow flesh, firm, sweet with slight tang, pit separates cleanly.
  • Leaves: 7–11 cm long, 2–3 cm wide, lanceolate, serrated, dark green, slightly wavy.
  • Flowers: Pink, 1–1.5 cm wide, abundant, mid spring.
  • Growth Habit: Upright, moderately spreading, dense canopy, gray bark with lenticels.
  • Chill Hours: 650–750, zones 5–8.
  • Note: Heavy bearer, prone to peach leaf curl, needs regular thinning.

Tropic Snow

A low-chill white-fleshed freestone variety, growing 10–12 feet tall and wide, developed for subtropical climates like Florida or Southern California. Produces sweet, juicy peaches for fresh eating. Ripens early June. Ideal for warm regions.

Identifying Characteristics:

  • Fruit: Medium (2–2.5 inches), white skin with 50–70% red blush, lightly fuzzy. White flesh, soft, very sweet with low acidity, freestone pit.
  • Leaves: 7–10 cm long, 2–3 cm wide, lanceolate, serrated, light green, glossy.
  • Flowers: Bright pink, 1–1.5 cm wide, early spring (February).
  • Growth Habit: Compact, rounded, dense, smooth gray bark with reddish twigs.
  • Chill Hours: 150–200, zones 8–9.
  • Note: Early bloomer, sensitive to late frosts, good for small spaces.

Jefferson

A freestone variety, growing 12–15 feet tall and wide, known for its cold hardiness and late-season fruit. Produces medium-sized, sweet peaches for fresh eating or canning. Ripens early September. Suited for northern orchards.

Identifying Characteristics:

  • Fruit: Medium (2–2.5 inches), yellow skin with 40–60% red blush, fuzzy. Yellow flesh, firm, sweet with mild tartness, freestone pit.
  • Leaves: 8–12 cm long, 2–3 cm wide, lanceolate, serrated, medium green, slightly curled.
  • Flowers: Light pink, 1.5–2 cm wide, late spring bloom (April).
  • Growth Habit: Upright, moderately spreading, open canopy, gray bark with fine ridges.
  • Chill Hours: 900–1,000, zones 4–8.
  • Note: Frost-resistant, moderate yields, good disease resistance.

June Gold

A low-chill clingstone variety, growing 10–12 feet tall and wide, popular in warm climates like the Southeast U.S. Produces early, tangy peaches for fresh eating or cooking. Ripens late May. Great for early harvests in mild winters.

Identifying Characteristics:

  • Fruit: Medium (2–2.5 inches), yellow skin with light red blush, fuzzy. Yellow flesh, firm, sweet-tart, pit adheres tightly.
  • Leaves: 7–10 cm long, 2–3 cm wide, lanceolate, serrated, medium green, glossy.
  • Flowers: Pink, 1–1.5 cm wide, very early spring (February).
  • Growth Habit: Compact, upright, moderately dense, gray bark with reddish twigs.
  • Chill Hours: 200–300, zones 7–9.
  • Note: Early ripening, prone to fruit split, good for warm regions.

Blazing Star

A flat-shaped freestone variety, growing 10–12 feet tall and wide, another “donut” peach with sweet, white flesh. Ideal for fresh eating due to its unique shape and flavor. Ripens early July. Popular for ornamental and edible gardens.

Identifying Characteristics:

  • Fruit: Medium (2.5–3 inches wide, 1 inch tall), flattened, white skin with 60–80% red blush, fuzzy. White flesh, juicy, very sweet, small freestone pit.
  • Leaves: 7–11 cm long, 2–3 cm wide, lanceolate, serrated, light green, slightly curled.
  • Flowers: Pale pink, 1–1.5 cm wide, delicate, early spring.
  • Growth Habit: Compact, rounded, dense, smooth gray bark with lenticels.
  • Chill Hours: 500–600, zones 5–8.
  • Note: Good for containers, sensitive to wet conditions, attractive shape.

Redskin

A freestone variety, growing 12–15 feet tall and wide, known for its deep red skin and sweet fruit. Excellent for fresh eating, canning, or pies. Ripens mid-August. Reliable in diverse climates with moderate chill needs.

Identifying Characteristics:

  • Fruit: Medium to large (2.5–3 inches), yellow skin with 70–90% red blush, fuzzy. Yellow flesh, firm, sweet with slight tang, pit separates easily.
  • Leaves: 8–12 cm long, 2–3 cm wide, lanceolate, serrated, dark green, glossy.
  • Flowers: Pink, 1.5–2 cm wide, abundant, mid spring.
  • Growth Habit: Vigorous, upright with spreading canopy, gray bark with reddish new growth.
  • Chill Hours: 750–850, zones 5–8.
  • Note: Heavy yields, prone to peach leaf curl, needs thinning.

Glohaven

A freestone variety, growing 12–15 feet tall and wide, valued for its large, colorful peaches and rich flavor. Great for fresh eating, canning, or freezing. Ripens early August. Popular in commercial and home orchards.

Identifying Characteristics:

  • Fruit: Large (2.5–3.5 inches), yellow skin with 60–80% red blush, fuzzy. Yellow flesh, firm, sweet with balanced acidity, freestone pit.
  • Leaves: 8–14 cm long, 2–4 cm wide, lanceolate, serrated, dark green, slightly wavy.
  • Flowers: Pink, 1.5–2 cm wide, showy, mid spring.
  • Growth Habit: Vigorous, upright with broad canopy, gray bark with fine fissures.
  • Chill Hours: 800–900, zones 5–8.
  • Note: Resistant to bacterial spot, heavy bearer, requires regular pruning.

Golden Jubilee

A freestone heirloom variety, growing 12–15 feet tall and 10–12 feet wide, known for its reliable yields and flavorful peaches. Ideal for fresh eating, canning, or baking due to its sweet, juicy fruit. Ripens early August. Popular in home orchards since the 1920s.

Identifying Characteristics:

  • Fruit: Medium to large (2.5–3 inches diameter), golden yellow skin with 40–60% red blush, fuzzy. Yellow flesh, juicy, sweet with mild tang, pit separates easily.
  • Leaves: 8–13 cm long, 2–3 cm wide, lanceolate, finely serrated, dark green, glossy, slightly curled along edges.
  • Flowers: Bright pink, 1.5–2 cm wide, five-petaled, clustered, mid spring (March–April).
  • Growth Habit: Vigorous, upright with a spreading, rounded canopy, smooth gray bark with reddish new growth and fine lenticels.
  • Chill Hours: 700–800, suited for zones 5–8.
  • Note: Heavy producer, susceptible to peach leaf curl, benefits from fruit thinning for larger sizes.

Flordaprince

A low-chill semi-clingstone variety, growing 10–12 feet tall and wide, bred for subtropical climates like Florida or Southern California. Produces early, sweet peaches for fresh eating or preserves. Ripens early May. Ideal for warm regions with mild winters.

Identifying Characteristics:

  • Fruit: Medium (2–2.5 inches), yellow skin with 50–70% red blush, moderately fuzzy. Yellow flesh, firm, sweet with a slight tart kick, pit slightly adheres.
  • Leaves: 7–10 cm long, 2–3 cm wide, lanceolate, serrated, light green, glossy, slightly wavy.
  • Flowers: Pink, 1–1.5 cm wide, abundant, very early spring (February).
  • Growth Habit: Compact, upright with a rounded, dense canopy, smooth gray bark with reddish twigs.
  • Chill Hours: 150–200, zones 8–9.
  • Note: Early ripening, prone to fruit splitting in wet conditions, good for small gardens.

Sunhigh

A freestone variety, growing 12–15 feet tall and wide, valued for its large, high-quality peaches with excellent flavor. Suitable for fresh eating, canning, or freezing. Ripens mid-July. Popular in commercial orchards for its consistent yields.

Identifying Characteristics:

  • Fruit: Large (2.5–3.5 inches), yellow skin with 60–80% red blush, fuzzy. Yellow flesh, firm, sweet with balanced acidity, pit separates cleanly.
  • Leaves: 8–14 cm long, 2–4 cm wide, lanceolate, serrated, dark green, slightly drooping, glossy upper surface.
  • Flowers: Light pink, 1.5–2 cm wide, showy, mid spring (March–April).
  • Growth Habit: Vigorous, upright with a broad, spreading canopy, gray bark with fine fissures and reddish new growth.
  • Chill Hours: 750–850, zones 5–8.
  • Note: Needs regular pruning, susceptible to brown rot, excellent for market sales.

Sugar Giant

A white-fleshed freestone variety, growing 12–15 feet tall and 10–12 feet wide, known for its exceptionally sweet, large peaches. Perfect for fresh eating due to its low-acid, dessert-like flavor. Ripens mid-July. Popular in home gardens.

Identifying Characteristics:

  • Fruit: Large (2.5–3.5 inches), white skin with 60–80% red blush, lightly fuzzy. White flesh, juicy, very sweet with floral notes, freestone pit.
  • Leaves: 8–12 cm long, 2–3 cm wide, lanceolate, finely serrated, light green, glossy, slightly curled.
  • Flowers: Pale pink, 1–1.5 cm wide, delicate, mid spring.
  • Growth Habit: Upright, moderately spreading, dense canopy, smooth gray bark with reddish twigs.
  • Chill Hours: 700–800, zones 5–8.
  • Note: High sugar content, prone to bacterial spot, requires good air circulation.

J.H. Hale

A freestone heirloom variety, growing 15–20 feet tall and 12–15 feet wide, renowned for its large, premium-quality peaches with rich flavor. Used for fresh eating, canning, or drying. Ripens mid-August. Requires cross-pollination, unlike most peaches.

Identifying Characteristics:

  • Fruit: Very large (3–4 inches), yellow skin with 50–70% red blush, fuzzy. Yellow flesh, firm, sweet with a rich, tangy finish, pit separates easily.
  • Leaves: 8–15 cm long, 2–4 cm wide, lanceolate, serrated, dark green, slightly wavy, glossy.
  • Flowers: Pink, 1.5–2 cm wide, abundant, mid spring.
  • Growth Habit: Vigorous, upright with a broad, rounded canopy, gray bark with reddish branches and fine lenticels.
  • Chill Hours: 800–900, zones 5–8.
  • Note: Needs another variety for pollination, heavy yields, susceptible to peach scab.

Flat Wonderful

A flat-shaped freestone variety, growing 10–12 feet tall and wide, also known as a “donut” or “peento” peach. Sweet, white-fleshed fruit is ideal for fresh eating. Ripens early July. Compact size suits small gardens or containers.

Identifying Characteristics:

  • Fruit: Medium (2.5–3 inches wide, 1 inch tall), flattened, white skin with 60–80% red blush, fuzzy. White flesh, juicy, very sweet with low acidity, small freestone pit.
  • Leaves: 7–11 cm long, 2–3 cm wide, lanceolate, serrated, light green, slightly curled, glossy.
  • Flowers: Pale pink, 1–1.5 cm wide, delicate, early spring (February–March).
  • Growth Habit: Compact, rounded, dense canopy, smooth gray bark with lenticels.
  • Chill Hours: 400–500, zones 5–8.
  • Note: Unique shape, prone to cracking in wet conditions, ornamental appeal.

Babygold 5

A clingstone variety, growing 12–15 feet tall and wide, bred for canning due to its firm, flavorful fruit. Popular in commercial processing but also good for fresh eating. Ripens mid-July. Reliable in temperate climates.

Identifying Characteristics:

  • Fruit: Medium (2–2.5 inches), yellow skin with 40–60% red blush, fuzzy. Yellow flesh, very firm, sweet with slight tartness, pit adheres tightly.
  • Leaves: 7–12 cm long, 2–3 cm wide, lanceolate, serrated, medium green, glossy, slightly drooping.
  • Flowers: Pink, 1–1.5 cm wide, clustered, mid spring.
  • Growth Habit: Upright, moderately spreading, dense canopy, gray bark with fine fissures.
  • Chill Hours: 700–800, zones 5–8.
  • Note: Excellent for canning, moderate disease resistance, needs thinning.

Eva’s Pride

A low-chill freestone variety, growing 10–12 feet tall and wide, developed for warm climates like California or the Southeast. Produces medium-sized, sweet peaches for fresh eating or preserves. Ripens early June. Ideal for mild winters.

Identifying Characteristics:

  • Fruit: Medium (2–2.5 inches), yellow skin with 50–70% red blush, fuzzy. Yellow flesh, juicy, sweet with mild tartness, pit separates easily.
  • Leaves: 7–10 cm long, 2–3 cm wide, lanceolate, serrated, light green, glossy, slightly wavy.
  • Flowers: Bright pink, 1–1.5 cm wide, showy, early spring (February).
  • Growth Habit: Compact, upright, moderately dense, smooth gray bark with reddish twigs.
  • Chill Hours: 100–200, zones 8–9.
  • Note: Early ripening, good for subtropical areas, sensitive to late frosts.

Bonanza

A dwarf freestone variety, growing 5–6 feet tall and wide, perfect for small gardens, patios, or containers. Produces medium-sized, sweet peaches for fresh eating. Ripens mid-June. Suited for mild climates and urban settings.

Identifying Characteristics:

  • Fruit: Medium (2–2.5 inches), yellow skin with 50–70% red blush, fuzzy. Yellow flesh, juicy, sweet with a tangy finish, freestone pit.
  • Leaves: 6–9 cm long, 2–3 cm wide, lanceolate, serrated, medium green, glossy, slightly curled.
  • Flowers: Pink, 1–1.5 cm wide, abundant, early spring (February–March).
  • Growth Habit: Very compact, rounded, dense canopy, smooth gray bark with reddish twigs.
  • Chill Hours: 250–350, zones 6–9.
  • Note: Ideal for containers, low maintenance, prone to fruit overload without thinning.

General Notes

  • Chill Hours: Varieties range from low-chill (e.g., Eva’s Pride, Bonanza: 100–350 hours) for warm climates to moderate-chill (e.g., Golden Jubilee, Sunhigh: 700–900 hours) for temperate regions. Chill hours are essential for proper fruit set.
  • Care: Peach trees require well-drained, sandy loam soil (pH 6.0–6.5), full sun, and annual pruning to maintain an open vase shape. Common issues include peach leaf curl, brown rot, and pests like peach tree borers or plum curculio.
  • Pollination: Most are self-pollinating, except J.H. Hale, which needs a pollinator like Elberta or Red Haven. Cross-pollination can enhance yields.
  • Toxicity: Peach pits contain cyanogenic compounds, toxic if ingested in large quantities.
  • Uses: Fruits are used fresh, canned, dried, or in desserts. Trees provide ornamental value with vibrant spring blossoms.

Leave a Comment