Peach tree -- Zaiqueen cultivar

Abstract

A new and distinct peach variety possessing a relatively low chilling requirement is provided. The fruit of the new variety is early maturing and unlike most low chilling varieties has a higher level of red skin coloration, and excellent commercial qualities such as firmness and the ability to withstand handling and shipping. The new variety originated as an open pollinated seedling with the Ruby Gold nectarine variety (U.S. Plant Pat. No. 3,101) serving as the seed parent. Various peach varieties having low chilling requirements were growing the area and likely served as the pollen source. The new variety of the present invention is particularly suited for growing in the United States in zone 9 and the upper part of zone 10.

I claim: 
     
       1. A new and distinct variety of peach tree, substantially as illustrated and described, characterized by (a) a large, vigorous and upright growth habit, (b) a relatively low chilling requirement, and (c) the productive formation of good quality early maturing and uniform ripening medium to large fruit having a high level of red skin coloration and a firm yellow flesh which possesses good eating and shipping qualities.