Glass Peach

About

Common Names: Glass Peach
Classification: Tree
Description: These trees grow upwards of 5 m and are found in warm, semi-tropical climes, with lightly forested areas. The name glass peach is a reference to the translucent petals of the blossoms of the tree, which resemble stained glass.

Rarity: Rare (wild), Uncommon (domestic)
Distribution: Subtropical to temperate savanna and light woodlands.
Life Cycle: Glass peaches produce many flowers each spring, which develop into fruit.; The fruit are a yellow-orange colour, and about half the size of a fist, with a light fuzzy texture typical of similar fruit. They contain a hard pit, which protects the embryonic plants from depredation. Also like other plants of a similar species the seed itself contains compounds which give it a bitter taste that, while not toxic, deters consumption.

Cultivation: Orchards of glass peach trees are maintained in regions with a suitable climate. The attractive flowers make them a popular accent for gardens and parks.
Culinary: Nectar, Preserves, filling for pies and tarts, Served chilled with fresh cream, or eaten directly.
Medicinal: No known medicinal uses.
Other: Cuttings of the floral sprigs are taken in the spring and used to add beauty and sweet fragrance to homes.

Artistic: Glassblowers often try to emulate the delicate structure of the petals in some of their art.
Religious: The glass peach tree is believed to be particularly blessed by the Goddess as a sign of divine touch upon the terrestrial realm.