The Hybrid Plums 85 



combine more readily with other groups, however, and are to 

 be regarded with favor. 



Prunus americana. The finest flavor known in plums be- 

 longs unquestionably to the Americanas. The firmness of flesh 

 and hardiness of tree are also qualities of paramount practical 

 importance. Partly on account of their late-blooming season, 

 and partly perhaps on account of a lack of affinity for other 

 species, they do not hybridize so readily in the orchard. For 

 the same reasons they are not so convenient for the plant 

 breeder. In spite of this they are among the most promising 

 plums for the production of valuable hybrids. 



