Prunus persica 'May Grand' Nectarine

Prunus persica 'May Grand', known as the 'May Grand' Nectarine, is a standout choice for home orchards or garden feature trees, prized for its early ripening, large, and exceptionally sweet fruit. This deciduous tree grows to about 3.6–4.6 meters tall and 3–4.5 meters wide, forming an upright, spreading shape ideal for freestanding planting or training along garden structures.

In early spring, it produces beautiful pinkish-white blossoms, setting the stage for large, freestone nectarines with smooth yellow skin and luscious flesh that’s perfect for fresh eating, desserts, and canning. Thriving best in full sun, it requires well-drained soils and moderate maintenance, including annual pruning to support health and fruit yield.

Regular watering during the fruiting season helps ensure the sweetest, juiciest harvests. They look excellent when planted near pollinator-friendly flowers or companion plants that support soil health and garden biodiversity.

Common Name: May Grand Nectarine

Genus: Prunus

Botanical Species: persica

Family: Rosaceae

Botanical Name: Prunus persica 'May Grand'

• Edible Garden
• Feature Tree
• Plant in Pots (or) Suitable for Pots

Prunus persica 'May Grand' Nectarine works in an:

• Edible Garden – integrates fruit, herbs, and productive plants.
• Cottage Garden – romantic mix of flowers, colour, and texture.
• Modern Garden – sleek, minimal, and design-led planting.
• Low-maintenance Garden – resilient choices for easy care and year-round appeal.

Prunus persica 'May Grand' Nectarine is an Deciduous (Defoliates throughout colder months) Tree

Mature Height: 3m - 5m Approximately (can be kept smaller by pruning)

Mature Width: 3 – 4.5 meters

Prunus persica 'May Grand' Nectarine is expected to grow Approx. 60 – 90 cm/year (Fast).

Prunus persica 'May Grand' Nectarine is expected to grow Approx. 60 – 90 cm/year (Fast).

They are considered to have a:

• Medium Growth Rate

Is Prunus persica 'May Grand' Nectarine frost tolerant?

Prunus persica 'May Grand' Nectarine is Frost Hardy – Survives heavy and frequent frost without damage.

• Inland QLD (Darling Downs, Central QLD)
• Northern NSW (Byron, Coffs, Armidale)
• Sydney & Central Coast
• South Coast NSW (Illawarra to Bega)
• Inland NSW / Tablelands (Orange, Bathurst, Canberra)
• Melbourne & Surrounds (Metro, Bayside, Geelong, Bellarine, Mornington)
• Western District & Central VIC (Ballarat, Bendigo, Hamilton)
• Gippsland (Latrobe Valley, East Gippsland)
• Adelaide Metro & Coastal
• Adelaide Hills & Barossa

Prunus persica ‘May Grand’ produces masses of soft pink blossoms in early spring, often before the leaves emerge. These delicate, lightly fragrant flowers create a classic orchard-style display and set the stage for early-season, large, sweet yellow-fleshed nectarines.

Does Prunus persica 'May Grand' Nectarine flower?

• Yes - Flowers

Flowering Period:

• Spring

Flower Type:

• Clustered

Flower Colour:

Pink

No

Prunus persica 'May Grand' Nectarine is Native to Originally from China, where Prunus persica (peach and nectarine) originated, later bred into the ‘May Grand’ cultivar for reliable fruiting.

Its early spring blossoms attract bees and other pollinating insects essential for fruit development. The ripening nectarines provide seasonal food for birds, while the branching canopy offers light shelter and nesting habitat, contributing biodiversity to home orchards and edible landscapes.

Prunus persica 'May Grand' Nectarine will thrive best in:

• Full Sun

Prunus persica ‘May Grand’ performs best in well-drained loam or sandy loam soils and prefers slightly acidic to neutral conditions. It may struggle in heavy clay, compacted, or waterlogged soils unless improved with organic matter and coarse material to increase drainage and root aeration. Keep soil evenly moist during establishment, then transition to deep, occasional watering as the tree matures to support vigorous growth, reliable fruiting and long-term orchard health.

Is Prunus persica 'May Grand' Nectarine Drought tolerant?

As a young tree it requires regular watering, and once established ‘May Grand’ offers moderate drought tolerance. It performs best in warm, dry climates and benefits from deep, occasional watering during extended dry periods. Consistent moisture during flowering and fruit set enhances both yield and fruit quality.