skovplum

Skovplum is a Danish term that translates to "forest plum" and generally refers to a wild plum species found in forests or wooded areas of Denmark. While not a specific cultivar with a standardized name, it typically refers to trees or shrubs that produce small, tart fruits. These wild plums are often the descendants of Prunus domestica, the common European plum, which may have escaped cultivation and naturalized over time.

The skovplum fruits are usually smaller than cultivated plums and can vary in color from reddish-purple to yellow. Their flavor is often described as sour or astringent, making them less appealing for fresh consumption compared to their cultivated counterparts. However, they are sometimes used for making jams, jellies, preserves, or even as a flavoring agent in alcoholic beverages like aquavit.

These wild plum trees are hardy and can thrive in a variety of soil conditions, often found growing in hedgerows, on the edges of woodlands, and in uncultivated patches of land. They contribute to the biodiversity of the Danish landscape, providing food for wildlife such as birds and small mammals. The term skovplum emphasizes its natural, uncultivated origin in a forest setting, distinguishing it from plums grown in orchards.