Purple Rose apricots are a plum-apricot hybrid, known in the trade as an aprium, grown by Family Tree Farms and named for its deep purple, velvety skin. Cut one open and the flesh is a light orange, juicy and soft, with a flavor that leans more toward plum than apricot, along with a faint tropical note reminiscent of mango. Apriums sit on a spectrum of plum-apricot crosses that also includes pluots (plum-dominant) and plumcots (an even split), with apriums landing closest to true apricot in both appearance and genetics. Available in season from about May through September. Enjoy them fresh as a snack, halve and roast them with a drizzle of honey, or fold sliced fruit into a green salad with soft cheese. Pairs well with mint, pistachio, ricotta, honey, and a squeeze of lime.

