Damson Tree - Westmorland

Damson Tree - Westmorland

Prunus insititia 'Westmorland' has a complicated heritage. Otherwise known as the Lythe Valley Damson, or Witherslack Damson, the Westmorland damson might originally have been a type of Shropshire Prune. Its fans say its relatively small but delicious fruit is an improvement. It is found in the orchards of the Lythe and Winster valleys, where its white blossom drew trippers from the Lancashire mill towns, but deserves a wider audience. Up to the Second World War damsons were an important local crop, and sold in Kendal market to be taken by train to jam factories. Like all damsons, Westmorland is a hardy plant which will thrive on most soils, but not peat or heavy clay. To find out more about this intriguing tree visit the Westmorland Damson Association.

Photo: Penrith Action for Community Transition
Supplier: R.V. Roger Ltd.

All our damson trees, including the Westmorland damson, are bare root, so they are only available between November and April. During lifting season, there will be a delay between placing the order and dispatching due to pressure of orders, which are dealt with in date sequence, and the weather. Orders taken from June-October will be confirmed in late October/ early November after a nursery stock take, for dispatch from November. Please consult our planting and care guide on receipt of your order.

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Have a look at our videos on what to do when your plants arrive and how to plant a bare root tree.