The Redleaf Nectarine Tree is a beautiful dwarf fruit tree that combines colorful ornamental foliage with edible nectarines. Also known as Sunset Red Leaf Nectarine, this unique selection produces purplish-red leaves, light pink spring flowers and smooth-skinned fruit on a naturally compact tree. Redleaf Nectarine is an excellent choice for small yards, patios, containers, edible landscapes and home orchards. Although the tree remains small, it can produce medium to large nectarines with yellow flesh and dark red-blushed skin. Plant Details Botanical Name: Prunus persica ‘Plantnet-Sunset2’ Common Name: Redleaf Nectarine Also Known As: Sunset Red Leaf Nectarine Breeding Selection: Fla. 04-01orn Plant Type: Deciduous dwarf fruit tree Origin: University of Florida breeding program Chill Requirement: Approximately 150 chill hours Climate Classification: Very low-chill nectarine Growth Habit: Compact, upright to spreading Mature Height: Approximately 4–5 feet Mature Width: Approximately 3–4 feet Sun Requirements: Full sun Daily Sunlight: At least 6–8 hours Soil: Fertile, well-drained soil Foliage Color: Purplish-red during the growing season Bloom Time: Very early spring Flower Color: Light pink Flower Type: Single, five-petaled flowers Harvest Season: Very early season; timing varies by location and weather Fruit Size: Medium to large Fruit Shape: Broad and slightly oval Fruit Skin: Yellow background covered with a dark red blush Flesh Color: Yellow Flesh Type: Medium-firm and melting Pit Type: Clingstone Flavor: Juicy with a balanced sweet-tart nectarine flavor Pollination: Self-fertile Uses: Fresh eating, slicing, preserves, desserts, containers and edible landscapes Official variety records describe ‘Plantnet-Sunset2’ as a very small, brachytic dwarf nectarine with purplish-red foliage, yellow melting flesh, clingstone fruit and an estimated 150-hour chilling requirement. Ornamental Features Redleaf Nectarine provides color and interest through several seasons. Its narrow leaves emerge purplish red, creating a striking contrast with ordinary green-leaf fruit trees. Light pink flowers appear along the branches in early spring before the tree develops its full canopy. Its naturally compact growth makes it especially attractive in patios, courtyards, small gardens and decorative containers. Because the tree remains small, it can be placed where its colorful foliage, spring flowers and developing fruit can easily be enjoyed. Fruit and Flavor Redleaf Nectarine produces smooth-skinned fruit with dark red coloring over a yellow background. The yellow flesh has a melting texture and a balanced combination of sweetness and acidity. The fruit is clingstone, meaning the flesh remains attached to the pit when ripe. It can be enjoyed fresh or used for preserves, jam, fruit salads, cobblers and other homemade desserts. The fruit is medium to large for such a compact tree. Proper fruit thinning and regular watering during fruit development will help improve fruit size and quality. Pollination Redleaf Nectarine is self-fertile, so one tree can produce fruit without another peach or nectarine nearby. A second compatible peach or nectarine is not required. However, bees and other pollinating insects can help improve flower pollination and overall fruit set. North Florida Growing Note Redleaf Nectarine requires only approximately 150 chill hours and should receive more than enough winter chilling in the DeFuniak Springs area. Because its chill requirement is very low, the tree can complete dormancy and bloom very early. Open flowers and developing fruit may be damaged if warm winter weather is followed by a late freeze. Plant it in full sun in a location with good air movement and excellent drainage. Avoid low areas where cold air or rainwater collects. Redleaf Nectarine is a good specialty selection for North Florida customers who want a compact ornamental fruit tree. Its small size also makes it suitable for large containers that can be moved to a protected location during severe freezes. UF/IFAS classifies peaches and nectarines requiring 100–250 chill units as low-chill varieties. Planting and Care Plant Redleaf Nectarine in full sun where it will receive at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight each day. Strong sunlight helps maintain the best foliage color and supports flowering and fruit development. Choose a location or container with excellent drainage. Nectarine trees do not tolerate standing water or continuously wet roots. When growing in a container, use a large pot with several drainage holes and a high-quality, well-draining potting mix. Container-grown trees will require more frequent watering than trees planted in the ground. Prune lightly each year to remove damaged or crowded branches while preserving the tree’s naturally compact form. Nectarines produce fruit primarily on growth made during the previous year. Thin young fruit when it is approximately nickel-sized, leaving enough space between nectarines to allow proper development. UF/IFAS notes that early thinning and adequate irrigation can significantly improve Florida peach and nectarine fruit size. Watch for common stone-fruit problems, including bacterial spot, brown rot, scale and peach tree borers. Good airflow, sanitation and properly timed preventive care are important in North Florida’s humid climate. Local Pickup and Limited Shipping Most plants and trees are available for local pickup at our nursery in DeFuniak Springs, Florida. Limited shipping is available for select persimmon trees, liners and smaller plants. Please contact us before ordering if shipping is needed. Shipping charges are separate and are not included in the online price. Wholesale Availability Wholesale pricing is available for qualified nurseries and landscapers. Contact Advanced Nursery Growers for current availability and pricing. Advanced Nursery Growers1911 McLeod RoadDeFuniak Springs, FL 32435Call: 850-391-2228Email: [email protected]
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