Plumcot vs. Pluot — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman & Maham Liaqat — Updated on April 7, 2024
Plumcot is a hybrid fruit of equal plum and apricot parentage, while a pluot has a greater genetic contribution from plums than apricots.
Difference Between Plumcot and Pluot
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Plumcots, as the first generation of hybrids between plums and apricots, offer a balanced mix of both parents' flavors and physical characteristics. In contrast, pluots, resulting from further breeding, predominantly feature plum characteristics with a hint of apricot, leading to a sweeter and juicier fruit with a smoother skin compared to the more evenly balanced plumcot.
The development of plumcots marked the initial step in hybrid fruit innovation, combining the best traits of plums and apricots. On the other hand, pluots, developed through more complex breeding techniques involving plumcots, represent an advancement in agricultural science, aiming to enhance sweetness, juiciness, and market appeal.
While plumcots showcase a 50/50 genetic split between plums and apricots, pluots are more nuanced, with their genetic makeup leaning more towards plums. This genetic difference influences the fruits' texture, flavor, and appearance, making pluots generally sweeter and more plum-like in taste and texture.
Plumcots are often seen as a direct, natural crossbreed, celebrated for their unique blend of flavors and qualities from both parent fruits. Pluots, with their increased plum influence, have been selectively bred to appeal to those desiring a fruit that combines the best qualities of plums with the subtle undertones of apricots.
Both plumcots and pluots signify the possibilities within the field of fruit hybridization, each appealing to different palates and culinary uses. Plumcots are appreciated for their balanced flavor, while pluots are favored for their sweetness and texture, making them more prevalent in today's fruit markets.
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Comparison Chart
Genetic Makeup
50% plum, 50% apricot
Primarily plum with apricot characteristics
Flavor
Balanced mix of plum and apricot flavors
Sweeter, with a dominant plum flavor
Skin Texture
Rougher, similar to apricots
Smoother, more like plums
Development Stage
First generation hybrid
Further bred for specific traits
Market Presence
Less common compared to pluots
More prevalent, with various cultivars
Compare with Definitions
Plumcot
Serves as the foundation for further fruit hybridization.
The creation of plumcots marked the beginning of extensive stone fruit crossbreeding.
Pluot
Characterized by its smooth skin and juicy flesh.
Pluots are especially juicy, making them a popular choice for fresh eating.
Plumcot
A hybrid fruit of equal parts plum and apricot.
The plumcot's unique flavor comes from its balanced apricot and plum heritage.
Pluot
Offers a variety of cultivars with diverse flavors and appearances.
There are many types of pluots, each with its unique taste profile.
Plumcot
Known for its distinctive taste that equally represents both parent fruits.
Plumcots are favored for their perfect blend of sweetness and tartness.
Pluot
A fruit hybrid more heavily influenced by plum genetics.
The pluot's taste is predominantly sweet, with a slight hint of apricot.
Plumcot
Celebrated for its balanced blend and natural hybrid qualities.
Chefs appreciate plumcots for their balanced flavor in culinary creations.
Pluot
Results from selective breeding to enhance certain traits.
Breeding pluots focused on achieving a sweeter and more robust fruit.
Plumcot
Often has a rough skin texture akin to an apricot.
The skin of a plumcot can be slightly rough, reminiscent of its apricot lineage.
Pluot
Has become more common in markets due to its appealing characteristics.
Due to their delicious flavor, pluots have gained popularity among consumers.
Plumcot
A hybrid fruit of plum and apricot.
Pluot
Pluots, apriums, apriplums, or plumcots, are some of the hybrids between different Prunus species that are also called interspecific plums. Whereas plumcots and apriplums are first-generation hybrids between a plum parent (P. salicina) and an apricot (P. armeniaca), pluots and apriums are later-generations.
Plumcot
A cross between the plum and apricot.
Pluot
A hybrid fruit that is a cross between a plum and an apricot and is typically three-quarters plum and one-quarter apricot.
Plumcot
Hybrid produced by crossing Prunus domestica and Prunus armeniaca
Pluot
A fruit which is a cross between a Japanese plum and an apricot, featuring more characteristics of plums than those of apricots.
Plumcot
Hybrid between plum and apricot
Common Curiosities
What is the primary difference between a plumcot and a pluot?
The primary difference is in their genetic makeup; plumcots have an equal mix of plum and apricot genes, whereas pluots have more plum genes.
Why are pluots more common than plumcots?
Pluots have been more widely marketed and have varieties that cater to consumer preferences for sweeter, juicier fruit.
Can plumcots and pluots be used interchangeably in recipes?
While they can be used interchangeably, the subtle differences in sweetness and texture may affect the final dish.
Are plumcots and pluots natural fruits?
Yes, they are both natural hybrids, though pluots have undergone more selective breeding.
How do you choose a ripe plumcot or pluot?
Look for fruit that is slightly soft to the touch and has a fragrant smell; avoid fruit with bruises or blemishes.
Do plumcots and pluots require special care when growing?
Like their parent fruits, they thrive in similar conditions but may have specific needs based on the variety.
What are the nutritional benefits of plumcots and pluots?
Both are rich in vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, offering similar health benefits to plums and apricots.
What is the best way to store plumcots and pluots?
Store them at room temperature until ripe and then refrigerate to prolong freshness.
Which is sweeter, a plumcot or a pluot?
Generally, pluots are sweeter because they have been bred to enhance the sweetness characteristic of plums.
Can the skin of plumcots and pluots be eaten?
Yes, the skin of both fruits is edible and contains nutrients and fiber.
Can plumcots and pluots grow in any climate?
They prefer warm climates similar to those suitable for plums and apricots.
How were plumcots and pluots developed?
Plumcots were created through natural cross-pollination, while pluots were developed through more controlled breeding programs.
What makes pluots particularly appealing to consumers?
Their enhanced sweetness, juicy texture, and variety of flavors make them appealing to a wide range of tastes.
Are there any common allergens in plumcots and pluots?
Those with sensitivities to stone fruits may also react to plumcots and pluots.
How long have plumcots and pluots been around?
Plumcots have been around since the early 20th century, while pluots were developed later.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Maham Liaqat
