Apricot (Prunus armeniaca)

Also known as: Ansu apricot, Tibetan apricot

The apricot (Prunus armeniaca) is a fruit-bearing plant native to Asia. Despite the genus name "Prunus," which typically refers to plums, this species produces apricots. Its seeds can sometimes be used in place of almonds due to their comparable shape and nutty flavor. Apricots have a long history of cultivation and were found in ancient Armenian archaeological sites.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Apricot

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Tree, Shrub

Plant Height

3 m to 12 m

Spread

6 m

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

2 cm to 4.5 cm

Flower Color

White Pink

Images of Apricot

Quickly Identify Apricot

Broad ovate leaves with finely serrated margins, 2.8-3.5 inches (7-9 cm) in length.

White to pinkish flowers with five rounded petals, 1-1.5 inches (2.5-3.8 cm) in diameter.

Fleshy, yellow to orange-colored fruits, 1.5-2.5 inches (4-6 cm) in diameter with a large pit.

Smooth to slightly rough stem, 0.5 inches (1.2 cm) to 3 inches (7.6 cm) in diameter.

Distinctive bark: light greyish-brown on younger trunks, rough and darker on older trunks.

Scientific Classification of Apricot

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Roses, elms, figs, and allies

Family

Rose

Genus

Prunus

Species

Apricot

Planting and Growing of Apricot

Care Difficulty

Moderate

Watering Schedule

Every 8 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

6-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

68-77℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Ceramic, Plastic

How to Water Apricot?

Prunus armeniaca thrives best when watered thoroughly, allowing the water to soak deep into the root zone. A typical amount is about 1000 ml per application, ensuring that the soil around the roots is moist but not waterlogged. The goal is to simulate its natural environment, where consistent moisture is available without creating pools of water around the base.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Apricot? ›

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What are the symptoms of an overwatered Apricot? ›

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What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Apricot?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours

Prunus armeniaca does best in full sun, defined by a daily 6 to 8-hour light exposure. With this ideal lighting, the plant maximizes photosynthesis, enhancing its growth and fruit-bearing potential significantly.

How much sunlight does Prunus armeniaca need? ›

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What benefits does Prunus armeniaca receive from ideal lighting? ›

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What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Apricot?

Ideal Temperature: 68 ~ 77℉

The ideal temperature range for growing Prunus armeniaca is between 68°F and 77°F. This range ensures optimal photosynthesis, growth, and fruit production. It's the most conducive to maintaining healthy plant metabolism and achieving high-quality fruit yield.

What Soil is Best for Apricot?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam, Calcareous soil

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Prunus armeniaca thrives in well-drained soil as it prevents root rot and promotes healthy root development. Ensuring good drainage mimics its natural habitat conditions, contributing to vigorous growth and abundant fruit production. This plant benefits from nutrient-rich soil because it supports the essential processes of photosynthesis and energy production. Rich soil provides the necessary macro and micro-nutrients that help in maximizing fruit yield and maintaining plant health. Moderate soil moisture is key for Prunus armeniaca to prevent water stress and promote balanced growth. Maintaining proper moisture levels ensures the plant doesn't dry out or become waterlogged, leading to optimal growth conditions. More About Soil→

How to Fertilize Apricot?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

Prunus armeniaca, commonly known as apricot, requires a balanced approach to fertilization to thrive. Typically, it takes around 50 grams of nitrogen, 25 grams of phosphorus, and 25 grams of potassium per year for a mature tree. Young trees may require less, usually half of that amount, distributed evenly throughout the growing season. More About Fertilizing Techniques→

How to Prune Apricot?

Pruning Time: Winter

Start by assessing the tree's overall structure. Identify any dead or damaged limbs, as well as branches that crisscross or rub against each other, as these can hinder healthy growth and fruit production. Carefully remove any suckers and watersprouts growing from the base or along the trunk. These shoots compete with the main branches for nutrients and can affect the tree's overall vigor. Selectively thin out branches that are too crowded to improve airflow and light penetration. This encourages fruit development and reduces the chance of fungal infections. Aim for a balanced, open-center shape that allows sunlight to reach all parts of the tree. This is crucial for encouraging large, sweet apricots and maintaining overall tree health. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Apricot plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early spring

Choose mature seeds from a ripe Prunus armeniaca fruit. Clean them thoroughly and stratify them by placing them in moist sand in the refrigerator for about 90 days to break dormancy.

Prepare healthy rootstock and scion wood. Make a precise cut on both and join them together. Secure with grafting tape to keep the union tight and prevent moisture loss.

After stratification, sow the seeds in a seed tray filled with a suitable potting mixture. Maintain a warm temperature of around 70°F (21°C) to encourage germination.

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How to Repot Apricot plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Prunus armeniaca, commonly known as apricot, should be repotted when you notice its roots starting to circle the container or peeking through the drainage holes. Additionally, if the soil becomes compacted or the plant's growth slows, these are signals that it's time to refresh its soil and provide more space for the roots.

Select a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one, ideally 2-3 inches more in diameter. This ensures proper root development and avoids excessive moisture retention. Ensure the pot has adequate drainage holes to prevent root rot and provide healthy airflow around the root system.

Use a well-draining loamy soil mix, which is essential for apricots to thrive. This type of soil prevents waterlogging while promoting adequate nutrient retention, mimicking the apricot’s natural environment and supporting healthy growth.

Toxicity of Apricot

Is Apricot toxic to humans?

The apricot, similar to almost all species within the *Prunus* genus, contains cyanogenic compounds in every part of the plant, including its seeds, with the only exception being the flesh of the fruit itself. When an individual consumes the seeds, leaves, or any other portion of the plant, these cyanotoxins can be converted into cyanide gas upon interacting with stomach acid. This toxic gas permeates through mucus membranes, leading to poisoning. The progression of symptoms includes agitation, weakness, a lack of coordination, muscle spasms, difficulties in movement or speech, decreased respiratory function and heart rate, ultimately culminating in death.

Is Apricot toxic to cat?

Highly toxic to felines, ingesting any portion of the apricot (Prunus armeniaca) plant can lead to symptoms such as vomiting, breathing difficulties, dilated pupils, or even shock. The cyanogenic compounds found in the plant's stems, leaves, and seeds become especially dangerous when the plant is in a wilting state, making older or dying specimens far more harmful than younger, healthy ones. It is recommended to seek veterinary care.

Is Apricot toxic to dog?

Every component of the apricot tree is highly toxic to dogs. While the seeds have the highest levels of the poison cyanide, the entire plant is hazardous if consumed and may result in fatal consequences if prompt veterinary care is not received. Signs of poisoning include excessive drooling, aggressive behavior, vomiting, bloody diarrhea, watery eyes, and general weakness.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

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