Prunus domestica commonly referred to as European plums is distinct from the large round diploid Japanese plums which are widely grown for fresh market consumption. Typically it forms a large shrub or a small tree. It may be somewhat thorny, with white blossom, borne in early spring. The pulp is usually sweet but some varieties are sour. Like all Prunus fruits, it contains a single large seed, usually called a stone, which is discarded when eating. P. domestica plums are significant components of human diets as prunes have been shown to have a wide range of health promoting activities including protection against cardiovascular disease, diabetes, digestive disorders, and osteoporosis.