I’m Familiar With Apricots Like Those Used In Smucker’s Jam,…
Donald Asked
I’m familiar with apricots like those used in Smucker’s jam, but what are “wild apricots” about?
The Gardener’s Answer
Hi, Donald: There are several species of apricot and even more varieties, all belong to the Prunus genus. Some have edible fruit used for drying and making jam, while others do not produce fruit and are grown specifically for ornamental value. Species that are grown around the world include the Japanese apricot, Tibetan apricot, Mandshurica apricot native to Korea, and the Siberian apricot, just to name a few. The wild apricot (P.Armeniaca vulgaris) is native to China, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature, this species is considered endangered. Threats to this plant include construction and harvesting for fuel and breeding programs. Like all plants that have been cultivated, the growers begin with the actual species; in this case the wild apricot is the origin of all cultivated varieties. Here in Kentucky we are more successful in growing the ornamental varieties as opposed to the fruiting ones. Our climate and soil do not allow for optimal growing conditions for these fruit trees.
