Orchards?..we don't need no stinking orchards

just one tree

http://laughingsquid.com/tree-of-40-fruit-a-hyper-hybrid-tree-that-grows-over-40-varieties-of-heirloom-stone-fruits/

‘Tree of 40 Fruit’, A Hyper Hybrid Tree That Grows Over 40 Varieties of Heirloom Stone Fruits

"Artist Sam Van Aken has created the amazing “Tree of 40 Fruit“, a hybrid tree that can grow over 40 varieties of stone fruits in various shades of pinks, purples and oranges. Using the process of chip grafting, Van Aken propagated the tree in order to preserve a number of heirloom varieties that have been marketed out of existence.

The Tree of 40 Fruit is an ongoing series of hybridized fruit trees by contemporary artist Sam Van Aken. Each unique Tree of 40 Fruit grows over forty different types of stone fruit including peaches, plums, apricots, nectarines, cherries, and almonds. Sculpted through the process of grafting, the Tree of 40 Fruit blossom in variegated tones of pink, crimson and white in spring, and in summer bear a multitude of fruit. Primarily composed of native and antique varieties the Tree of 40 Fruit are a form of conversation, preserving heirloom stone fruit varieties that are not commercially produced or available."

While I appreciate what he is trying to do, and publicizing growing your own fruit is great, I can't help but think that keeping a tree like that in balance must be a nightmare. 40 different varieties, with 40 different vigors, trying to make sure each variety gets enough sunlight **shudder**

It gives quite a floral display. I don't imagine that the practice will become common. It's a great way to start a food conversation. Many people are unaware that grafting exists at all. Through this, they may learn something.