Almond - Plant Encyclopedia Results

Almond trees (Prunus dulcis) are known for their beautiful pink and white flowers that attract butterflies and hummingbirds in the spring. They are deciduous, meaning they lose their leaves in the winter, making them a popular choice for bonsai. Almond fruit, which is a drupe with a single pit inside a green, fleshy layer, is rich in monounsaturated fatty acids and dietary fiber and provides numerous health benefits. Each tree can produce between five to eight pounds of almonds per year, with a mature tree in a warm climate potentially yielding up to twenty pounds. The tree can be grown in USDA Zones 7-10. In colder climates, almond trees can be grown in pots.

These trees prefer full sun but can also grow in semi-shade. They require moderate water and are able to withstand extended dry periods. Almonds are known to thrive in deep, loamy, well-drained soils but can also tolerate poor soils and drought during fruit development better than many other tree crops. In intensive orchards, the soil is managed similarly to other stone fruit trees, while in less intensive plantings in the Mediterranean region, almonds can be found growing on calcareous, rocky, and droughty soils. As with all Prunus species, almonds cannot tolerate wet, poorly drained soil.

Almonds are widely used in confectionery items such as candy bars, cakes, and toppings. A large portion of the almond crop is roasted and flavored or salted and sold in cans, while broken and small kernels are used in confectionery.

Prunus glandulosa is commonly used as an ornamental tree and for cut flowers.

It has white or pink flowers - single or double varies with cultivar.

Prunus glandulosa can be shaped to create an interesting landscape feature and is ideal for container gardening.

Medium tree. Leaves narrowly ovate, sharply toothed. Flower bright pink in clusters. Ovoid 1/2" fruit, bright red and shiny, with single stone. Often grown along roadsides for its beautiful flowers. It is in flower in April. The flowers are hermaphrodite (have both male and female organs) and are pollinated by insects.

Although no specific mention has been seen for this species, it belongs to a genus where most, if not all members of the genus produce hydrogen cyanide, a poison that gives almonds their characteristic flavor. This toxin is found mainly in the leaves and seed and is readily detected by its bitter taste. It is usually present in too small a quantity to do any harm but any very bitter seed or fruit should not be eaten. In small quantities, hydrogen cyanide has been shown to stimulate respiration and improve digestion, it is also claimed to be of benefit in the treatment of cancer. In excess, however, it can cause respiratory failure and even death. Originally introduced as a garden ornamental for its attractive blossom but now an aggressive invader in many parts of southern Africa.