Plum tree "Earliqueen"

Abstract

A new and distinct variety of plum tree which has the following outstanding features that are desirable in a new variety. 1. Early maturity of large fruit. 2. Fruit with good flavor and eating quality. 3. Heavy and regular production. 4. Vigorous upright growth. 5. Fruit with an attractive bordeaux red skin color. 6. Fruit with firm flesh, good handling and shipping quality. 7. The ability of the fruit to stay firm on the tree 6 to 10 days after shipping ripe.

We claim: 
     
       1. A new and distinct variety of plum tree, substantially as illustrated and described, characterized by its large size, vigorous, upright growth and a productive and regular bearer of early maturing, large, firm, clingstone fruit with good flavor and eating quality; the new variety is further characterized in comparison to the early maturing Red Beaut Plum (U.S. Plant Pat. No. 2,539) as producing larger fruit, being heavier in production and the fruit being approximately 2 days later in maturity.