In message , Martin
writes
On Thu, 14 Aug 2008 16:08:32 +0100, Sacha wrote:

We had some people in today who live in France and they were looking for
Damsons which they say seem to be unknown there (Paris and Corsica) This
got us onto what is the difference between a Damson and a Plum because both
are Prunus and probably domestica? I understand that damsons tend to make
smaller trees but if anyone can explain in terms of flavour or use,
enquiring minds would be really grateful. ;-)

Blame the Romans?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Damson

I always thought they were just wild plums.

There is a smallish tree in the park just beyond my garden fence which
bears a damson-like fruit some years. It's a darn nuisance because
it drops them on my garden, and because small boys climb the tree and
throw them at my house if they spot them

I did try eating one, but it didn't taste like a plum, and the windfalls
were all bruised.
--
Gordon H