National Plum Day

Young woman holding a basket of plums, wearing a flowy dress, enjoying a picnic in a sunny orchard.. — National plum day illustration

Ah, National Plum Day! The time of year when we celebrate those deliciously juicy fruits that make our taste buds dance with delight. Whether you prefer them fresh, baked into pies, or transformed into jam, plums are a versatile and tasty treat. So grab a plum and get ready to learn all about this delightful National Day!

When is Plum Day?

It's national plum day on the 11th August.

The Origin of National Plum Day

Did you know that the origins of National Plum Day can be traced back to the early days of the internet? Back in 1997, a group of plum enthusiasts and internet lovers decided that plums deserved their own special day of recognition. And so, National Plum Day was born! Since then, plum aficionados from around the world have come together each year on August 11th to celebrate all things plum.

The Internet's Love for Plums

The internet has played a huge role in spreading the word about National Plum Day. From mouthwatering recipes and photos shared on social media, to informative blog posts and articles dedicated to the wonders of plums, the online world has truly embraced this fruity holiday. In fact, our data shows that on August 11th, 2018, there were a whopping 30 mentions of National Plum Day online.

A Plum-tastic Fun Fact

Did you know that the plum tree has been cultivated for thousands of years? It's true! Plum trees have been grown and enjoyed by humans for over 2,000 years. They originated in China and were later introduced to Europe by the ancient Romans. Talk about a fruit with a long and storied history!

History behind the term 'Plum'

1st century BC

Ancient Beginnings

The history of the term 'plum' can be traced back to the 1st century BC. The word 'plum' originated from the Latin word 'prunum' which referred to the fruit we now know as plums. The Romans were among the first to cultivate and appreciate this sweet and succulent fruit.

8th century

Spread through Europe

Plums made their way into Europe during the 8th century, thanks to the efforts of the Moors who introduced them to Spain. From there, plums spread across the continent, becoming a popular fruit in many European countries. The delicious taste and versatility of plums led to their increasing popularity.

17th century

Varieties and Cultivation

During the 17th century, plums began to be cultivated more extensively in various regions. This led to the development of different plum varieties, each with its unique characteristics and flavors. Growers started experimenting with crossbreeding and grafting techniques to enhance the quality of the fruit.

19th century

Plum Symbolism

In the 19th century, plums started to gain symbolic importance. They became associated with prosperity, good fortune, and abundance, especially in Chinese culture. The phrase 'sugar plum' was also coined during this time, referring to a pleasing and sweet treat. Plums began to be used as symbols in literature, artwork, and folklore.

20th century

Plum in Popular Culture

The 20th century saw plums firmly establish themselves in popular culture. The term 'plum' began to be used metaphorically to describe something desirable or highly valued. This metaphorical usage reflected the fruit's reputation for being sweet, juicy, and delightful. Plums also found their way into numerous recipes, drinks, and confections.