Cultivation

The date plum, also called kaki, is a fruit of a tree that mainly grows in China, Korea, and Japan, as well in Italy, Israel and New Zealand in decreasing quantities. Yearly, about 2,5 million tons of kaki are harvested worldwide.

Utilization

The tomato-like, globular or oblate fruit weighs between 100 and 300 grams. The jelly-like fruit pulp exhibits a sweet aromatic flavour that reminds slightly of apricot and vanilla.

Date plums are usually consumed raw or processed into

marmalade and ice cream

Gene technology: aims of research and development

Agronomic traits

Pest resistance

• insect resistance

Disease resistance

• fungal resistance

Adaptation to climate and location

• drought and cold tolerant

Field trials with GM date plum