Damson

a variety of the common domestic plum or prune. It is known also as the Damascus plum; in fact, damson is a contraction of the adjective damascene, meaning of Damascus. This plum is supposed to have been brought to western Europe by the Crusaders returning from the East. It was introduced from England into America. The fruit is a small, black, dark bluish, or purple plum. The damson is surpassed by other plums for table use; but it is prized by housewives for preserves. The fruit in its native state has a puckery taste; but when cooked, it makes jams, marmalades, and the richest of preserves. See Plum; Damascus