What Does Davidson Plum Taste Like?

If you've ever wondered "What does Davidson Plum taste like?" - you're not alone. This strikingly dark native Australian fruit has piqued the interest of chefs, nutritionists, and food lovers alike for its bold flavour and impressive health benefits. Whether you're thinking of trying Davidson Plum for the first time or simply curious about its culinary uses, this blog will break down everything you need to know about its taste, texture, and how to enjoy it.

A Native Superfruit with a Bold Personality

Davidson Plum, sometimes called the “rainforest sour plum,” is a native Australian fruit grown primarily in the subtropical and tropical rainforests of New South Wales and Queensland. Unlike the common European plum, this native fruit belongs to an entirely different genus and delivers a very different taste experience.

So, What Does Davidson Plum Taste Like?

Davidson Plum has a rich, tart flavour—often described as a cross between rhubarb, sour cherry, and a hint of cranberry. It’s sharp, tangy, and intensely sour when eaten fresh, with deep berry-like undertones that make it a standout ingredient in both sweet and savoury dishes.

Here’s how people often describe the flavour profile:

• Sour Cherry – a strong tartness with fruity depth
• Deep Berry Notes – reminiscent of blueberry or riberry
• Citrusy Tang – bright, zesty acidity similar to lemon or tamarind
• Earthy Undertones – mild bitterness balanced by natural sugars

This powerful flavour is why Davidson Plum is rarely eaten raw—but shines when transformed into sauces, jams, chutneys, desserts, cocktails, and health products like powders and extracts.

Texture and Appearance

Davidson Plums have dark purple skin and vibrant magenta flesh. The texture is smooth and juicy when ripe, with very little fibre. The flavour is concentrated in the flesh, which is typically used in cooking or freeze-dried to make Davidson Plum powder—one of our bestsellers at Naturally Native.

Convenient Option: Davidson Plum Purée

If you're looking for a quick and easy way to incorporate this unique fruit into your cooking, try our ready-to-use Davidson Plum Purée. It captures all the bold, tart flavour of fresh plums in a smooth, seedless purée—perfect for desserts, sauces, dressings, or even stirring through yoghurt. It’s ideal for home cooks, chefs, and anyone wanting that punchy rainforest flavour without the prep work.

How to Use Davidson Plum in Cooking

Thanks to its bold tartness and antioxidant-rich profile, Davidson Plum is incredibly versatile. Here are some popular ways to enjoy it:

• Stir Davidson Plum powder into smoothies for a tangy boost
• Add to desserts like cheesecakes, ice cream or sorbet for a vibrant colour and flavour
• Use in savoury dishes such as chutneys, sauces, and marinades
• Create refreshing cordials, kombucha, or cocktails using Davidson Plum extract
• Pair with native ingredients like lemon myrtle, wattleseed, or riberry

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Need some inspiration? Check out our full list of Davidson Plum recipes to get started.

Final Thoughts

Davidson Plum is a true gem of the Australian rainforest—delivering both bold flavour and powerful nutrition. Its tangy, tart taste may surprise you at first, but once you experience it in a well-balanced recipe, you'll see why it's a favourite among chefs and food lovers seeking something truly unique.

Ready to taste the difference?
Explore our Davidson Plum Powder or try our convenient Davidson Plum Purée and experience native flavour at its best.