Demirci Figani Efendi Cherry

Demirci Figani Efendi Plum is a variety of plum with the Latin name Prunus domestica L., cultivated in the Demirci district of Manisa Province. Cultivation in the region began in 1886 with a sapling brought from the Peloponnese Peninsula, and the variety later came to be named after the person who introduced these saplings. On 10 June 2024, it was officially registered as a geographical indication and placed under geographical indication protection.

The Demirci district offers a unique environment for the cultivation of this plum, characterized by an elevation exceeding 850 meters and a climate transitional between Mediterranean and continental types. High elevation and low day-night temperature differences promote high dry matter (brix) accumulation in the fruit. Exposure to UV radiation induces dwarfing of plants, thickening of leaves, and intensified pigmentation, which enhances resistance to diseases. The harvest period extends until the last week of August.

The Demirci Figani Efendi plum is marketed both fresh and dried. The dried form may be with or without pits. Fresh fruit has yellow-orange skin and yellow flesh; dried fruit has dark brown to black skin and dark brown flesh. The fruits are round, weighing 21–28 grams when fresh and 9–10 grams when dried. The soluble dry matter content is 17–25% in fresh fruit and rises to 57–62% in dried fruit. The phenolic compound content in fresh fruit is 280–325 mg per 100 g.

The production of Demirci Figani Efendi plum is a multi-stage process carefully planned according to the region’s climatic and soil conditions. Production begins with the preparation of rootstocks of the Prunus amygdalus species. These rootstocks are grown in suitable soils from late summer to early autumn. After germination, the developed rootstocks are uprooted, classified, and stored until planting time when their stem thickness reaches sufficient levels.

Grafting is carried out from mid-July to mid-September. Cuttings from Demirci Figani Efendi plum trees are attached and secured to the rootstock. For orchard establishment, sites that are sheltered from wind, sloped, and have deep soils are preferred. Saplings are planted in January–February. Since this variety is self-sterile, pollinator varieties (Santa Rosa, Wickson, Beauty) must be planted at regular intervals.

Soil management is performed through seasonal plowing and hoeing. Cover crops help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Irrigation is typically carried out by drip method and maintained at regular intervals from mid-May until the onset of autumn rains. Chemical fertilizers are not used; only organic fertilizer is applied every two to three years. Pruning shapes the tree structure and ensures adequate light and air circulation. Branches at risk of breakage are supported, and regular hoeing is conducted for weed control.

Harvesting is done manually during the last week of August. Fruits are carefully collected, stored in shade, and packed in appropriate packaging. Fresh fruit can be stored for 6–7 weeks under cool and humid conditions. Drying is carried out either under sunlight or using appropriate technological equipment. Dried fruits, whether with or without pits, can be stored for up to one year in cool and dry conditions.

All procedures in the production of Demirci Figani Efendi plum, except for the preparation of almond rootstocks, are carried out within the boundaries of the Demirci district. Monitoring is conducted at least once a year by a committee composed of expert representatives from relevant public institutions, coordinated by the Demirci Municipality. The production method, product characteristics, and use of the geographical indication are all subject to monitoring.