Fig. 195.—ASHMORE.
The origin of this fine dessert fruit is not known. Though not commonly cultivated, it is considerably scattered, and has come to me from several points in the West with different local names.
Tree vigorous, upright, with long parallel branches that become spreading. Shoots rather slender, foliage rich green.
Fruit rather large, handsome, round, frequently flattened, regular, rarely angular; Surface smooth, polished, very light waxen yellow, almost wholly covered with brilliant lively carmine, very rarely an indistinct stripe; Dots minute, gray, indented.
Basin medium, often wavy or even folded; Eye small, closed; Segments reflexed.
Cavity narrow, acute, regular or wavy; Stem medium to short.
Core indistinct, closed; Seeds plump; Flesh yellowish-white, crisp, tender, very fine-grained, juicy; Flavor sub-acid, very agreeable; Quality best, though not rich; Uses, table, kitchen and market; Season, September and October; May be kept into winter.
There is also a Striped Ashmore, resembling this in every respect, except in the distinct stripe. It is supposed to be a sport from the above. Both varieties have been propagated to some extent by suckers or sprouts.
Bledsoe.