Key Facts
Scientific Name: Prunus persica ‘Contender’
Common Name: Contender Peach
Family: Rosaceae
Height: 15-20 feet at maturity
Spread: 15-20 feet
Leaf Shape: Elliptic, with serrated edges
Bark Color: Gray-brown
Fall Foliage Color: Yellow to orange
Flower Color: Pink blossoms in spring
Fruit Color: Reddish-orange
Growth Habit: Rounded, spreading canopy
Sunlight: Full sun
Soil Preference: Well-drained, loamy soils
Water Needs: Moderate, prefers consistent moisture
Wildlife Value: Attracts pollinators such as bees; provides food for birds
Pest and Disease Resistance: Generally resistant to common peach pests and diseases
USDA Hardiness Zone: 4-8
Why You’ll Love It:
The Contender Peach is celebrated for its delicious, freestone peaches and exceptional cold hardiness. Its sweet, juicy fruit and attractive blossoms make it a standout choice for home orchards. The tree’s vibrant fall foliage and reliable performance add both beauty and productivity to any garden.
Contender Peach
The Contender Peach (Prunus persica ‘Contender’) is a robust and productive peach variety known for its flavorful, freestone fruit. This tree produces medium to large peaches with a sweet, juicy flavor and vibrant, reddish-orange skin. The Contender Peach is valued for its cold hardiness, making it an excellent choice for gardens in cooler climates. It also features beautiful spring blossoms and rich fall color.
