Nectarine tree "Artic Queen"

#The present new variety of nectarine tree was originated by us in our experimental orchard located near Modesto, Calif., as a first generation cross between two selected nectarine seedlings with the field identification numbers 32EB252 and 35GC20. The material parent 32EB252 originated from a second generation cross between two selected seedlings. One with the parentage of Sun Grand Nectarine (U.S. Plant Pat. No. 974) crossed with Merril Gem Peach (U.S. Plant Pat. No. 868) and the other seedling was selected from a second generation cross between a late maturing nectarine of unknown parentage crossed with Autumn Grand Nectarine (U.S. Plant Pat. No. 2,894). The paternal parent 35GC20 originated as a second generation seedling from a cross between Redwing Peach (U.S. Plant Pat. No. 621) and a highly colored nectarine seedling of unknown parentage. A large group of these seedlings from which the present variety exhibited itself were planted and maintained under close observation in our experimental orchard. One such white flesh nectarine which evidenced distinctive desirable characteristics was selected for asexual reproduction and commercialization.

#The present new variety of nectarine tree was asexually propagated by budding, as performed by us in our experimental orchard located near Modesto, Calif., and shows that all characteristics come true to the original tree and are established and transmitted through succeeding propagations.

#The new and distinct variety of nectarine tree which is of large size, upright vigorous growth, medium dense and a productive and regular bearer of large, white flesh, freestone fruit with excellent flavor and eating quality. The fruit is further characterized by having an attractive red skin color, firm flesh texture with good handling and shipping qualities and the ability to ship to long distance markets.

#The accompanying color photographs show typical specimens of the fruit and foliage of the present nectarine variety, with the upper and lower surface of the leaves being shown, the exterior and a cross sectional view of the fruit being divided in the suture plan to reveal flesh coloration with a stone remaining in place. The photographs were taken shortly after being picked at maturity (firm ripe) and the colors are as nearly true as is reasonably possible in a color representation of this type.

#The following is a detailed botanical description of our new variety of nectarine tree, its flowers, foliage, and fruit with color definitions (except those in common terms) referenced to Reinhold Color Atlas by A. Kornerup and J. H. Wanscher.

#Tree:

#Size.--Large.