Royal and Blenheim These two varieties are so similar they .Courtesy of United Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Association are considered together as Royal. Royal is supposed to have originated in France about 1830, and Blenheim in England a very few years later. "Royal is a firm, well-colored, highly flavored apricot of medium size. It is used widely for canning and drying and is also shipped fresh." When ripe the Royal is orange yellow, often with a red blush. The flesh is deep orange, rich, and sweet. It is medium to large in size, roundish in shape, with structure not too well defined. The stone is free.