'Santa Rosa' is a very famous and widely cultivated plum variety. It was developed by the renowned American horticulturist Luther Burbank in Santa Rosa, California.
Despite its development in America, 'Santa Rosa' belongs to the species Prunus salicina, which are commonly known as Japanese plums. These plums originated in China but were extensively cultivated and developed in Japan before being introduced to other parts of the world.
Key characteristics:
Japanese plums (P. salicina): Generally larger, rounder, juicier, and often have a pointed tip. They require cross-pollination and have a lower chilling requirement than European plums. 'Santa Rosa' is a self-fertile or partially self-fertile Japanese plum.
European plums (P. domestica): More oval-shaped, firmer flesh, often used for drying (prunes) as well as fresh eating.
American plums (P. americana and other native species): Smaller, often tart, very hardy.
Damson plums (P. insititia): Small, tart, blue-black plums, mainly used for cooking and preserves.
Therefore, 'Santa Rosa' is a variety of Japanese plum.
Japanese plum