White nectarines, whole and cut open |
nectarine, (Prunus
persica variety nectarina), smooth-skinned peach of the
family Rosaceae,
known for more than 2,000 years and grown throughout the warmer temperate
regions of both the Northern and Southern hemispheres. In tree shape and leaf
characteristics the peach and
nectarine are indistinguishable, but nectarine fruits look more like plums than
peaches because of the smooth skin. The stones and kernels of the two fruits
are alike in appearance. Nectarines have red, yellow, or white flesh and are a
source of vitamins A and C. They are commonly eaten fresh, or cooked in
conserves, jams, and pies.