The peach is a deciduous tree first domesticated and cultivated in China. It bears edible juicy fruits with various characteristics. Most are simply called peaches, while the glossy-skinned, non-fuzzy varieties are called nectarines. Though from the same species, they are regarded commercially as different fruits.
The tree is regarded as handsome and is planted in gardens for its springtime blooms in addition to fruit production. It is relatively short lived, usually not exceeding twenty years of age. The specific name persica refers to its widespread cultivation in Persia, from where it was transplanted to Europe. From Wikipedia
