The peach is a drupe, or stone fruit, closely related to the apricot, plum, cherry and almond. Native to China, peach trees now grow everywhere from Asia and the Middle East to the Mediterranean region and North America. Over forty varieties of peach are grown in the State of Georgia, in the United States, where the peach is the official state fruit. Hundreds of varieties of peach exist, each distinguished as a freestone or a clingstone. The categorization describes how the flesh of the fruit adheres to the pit. Peaches are also organized into white and yellow varieties; the former are sweeter, while the latter are more acidic.
Often overlooked as a source of nutrition, one large peach supplies approximately 10% of the RDV of dietary fiber, vitamin A and potassium, and nearly 20% of the RDV of vitamin C. Peaches have a high content of water and are considered a diuretic. Known for their own beautiful and delicate skins, peaches are also thought to be an aid to the human complexion.
The light, sweet taste of peaches is a natural in desserts from tarts and pies to ice creams, yogurts and sorbets. Peach juice is a refreshing addition to juice blends, vitamin waters and alcoholic beverages