Apricot
Prunus armeniaca
Also listed as Armeniaca vulgaris, Amygdalus armeniaca
Also known as Common Apricot, Siberian Apricot, Tibetan Apricot
Climate Match for your location
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Apricot is a deciduous tree that produces fragrant white to pale pink blossoms in early spring, followed by golden-orange stone fruits in summer. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it ideal for home orchards in temperate climates.
Why grow it
Apricots mature earlier in the season than most stone fruits, offering fresh harvest potential in mid to late summer. Compared to peaches, apricots are generally more cold-hardy and can succeed in regions with shorter growing seasons, though they remain less widely adapted than plums. The tree's ornamental spring bloom and compact habit (typically 20-30 feet) make it suitable for smaller orchards where space is limited.
Watch out for
Apricot trees are susceptible to late spring frosts that can damage flower buds, so site selection in frost-prone valleys requires careful consideration. The trees benefit from consistent thinning of developing fruit to achieve larger specimens and reduce branch stress, which takes regular attention during the growing season. Well-drained soil is essential, as apricots perform poorly in heavy clay or consistently wet conditions. The pits, kernels and wilted leaves are toxic; eat only the fruit.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Rosaceae
Native Range
Central Asia (Caucasus and western Asia)
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Harvest Season
Edible Parts
Season of Interest
Canopy
The tallest trees that form the overstory.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Years to Bearing
- Propagation
Apricot is a deciduous tree that produces fragrant white to pale pink blossoms in early spring, followed by golden-orange stone fruits in summer. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it ideal for home orchards in temperate climates.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Apricot grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Apricots mature earlier in the season than most stone fruits, offering fresh harvest potential in mid to late summer. Compared to peaches, apricots are generally more cold-hardy and can succeed in regions with shorter growing seasons, though they remain less widely adapted than plums. The tree's ornamental spring bloom and compact habit (typically 20-30 feet) make it suitable for smaller orchards where space is limited.
Watch out for
Apricot trees are susceptible to late spring frosts that can damage flower buds, so site selection in frost-prone valleys requires careful consideration. The trees benefit from consistent thinning of developing fruit to achieve larger specimens and reduce branch stress, which takes regular attention during the growing season. Well-drained soil is essential, as apricots perform poorly in heavy clay or consistently wet conditions. The pits, kernels and wilted leaves are toxic; eat only the fruit.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Rosaceae
Native Range
Central Asia (Caucasus and western Asia)
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Harvest Season
Edible Parts
Season of Interest
Canopy
The tallest trees that form the overstory.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Years to Bearing
- Propagation
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