Peaches
Peach/Pītiti
Availability
New Zealand peaches are available from December to March.
Storage and Handling
Store at room temperature. Handle all fresh produce with care and wash before eating.
History
Peaches are native to China and were first cultivated there 2400 years ago. They were carried along the old silk routes to Persia (Iran). The Persians passed the peach to the Romans with cultivation eventually spreading to Europe and the American continent.
Facts
- Peaches are stone fruit (drupes) like cherries and apricots and are related to almonds
- Peach flesh can be white, yellow or almost red
Growing Facts
- Peaches grow on deciduous trees 5-10m tall
- The fruit is picked by hand to avoid damaging the delicate flesh
- Occasionally a nectarine can grow on a peach tree
- Once planted a peach tree can take up to four years to produce fruit
Nutrition Information
Peaches are a source of dietary fibre, potassium, niacin (vitamin B3) and vitamins C and E.
You will find the full Nutrition Information Panel on the New Zealand Food Composition Data website. This website is owned jointly by Plant & Food Research and the Manatū Hauora Ministry of Health. This website holds the most comprehensive collection of high-quality nutrient data for New Zealand foods. The Database is managed and maintained by dedicated Plant & Food Research staff.
