Sweet Almond

(Prunus dulcis)

Sweet Almond (Prunus dulcis)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Prunus dulcis, commonly known as Sweet Almond, is a deciduous tree native to Mediterranean climate regions, including parts of the Middle East and South Asia. It typically grows to a height of 4–10 m (13–33 ft) with a trunk diameter up to 30 cm (12 in). The young twigs are green at first, turning purplish where exposed to sunlight, and then grey in their second year. The Sweet Almond is particularly noted for its attractive white to pale pink flowers, which are 3–5 cm (1–2 in) in diameter with five petals. These flowers are produced singly or in pairs and appear before the leaves in early spring, offering an early source of nectar for pollinators.

The almond tree is valued for its nuts, which are actually seeds contained within a drupe. The nuts are encased in a hard shell that is surrounded by an outer hull. Almond trees begin to bear an economic crop in the third year after planting and reach full bearing five to six years after planting. The fruit matures in the autumn, 7–8 months after flowering. In cultivation, Sweet Almond trees are often grown in orchards and are prized for their nuts, which have numerous culinary and cosmetic uses. They require full sun, medium amounts of water, and well-drained soil to thrive. While they are relatively easy to maintain, they can be susceptible to diseases such as bacterial leaf scorch and fungal infections. Additionally, the trees are sensitive to waterlogging and require good drainage to prevent root diseases.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree
  • Height: 10-15 feet
  • Width: 10-15 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: Pink, White
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fragrant, Rabbit Resistant, Salt Tolerant, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Native to Mediterranean climate regions

Other Names

Common Names: Almendro, Almond, Bitter Almond, Knackmandel, Mandel, Mandelbaum, Bittermandelbaum, Amandier, Amandier Commun, Mandorio

Scientific Names: , Prunus dulcis, Prunus communis, Prunus amygdalus, Amygdalus dulcis, Amygdalus communis, Amygdalus communis var. amara, Prunus dulcis var. amara, Amygdalus korshinskyi, Prunus korshinskyi

GBIF Accepted Name: Prunus dulcis (Mill.) D.A.Webb