Prunus dulcis Texas - Organic Almond Tree

The Almond tree or Prunus dulcis Texas is an interesting variety for late flowering, which allows it to be cultivated in the southern third of France, in a sheltered position however. It is also a productive and generous variety from a young age, with soft-shelled nuts that are easier to shell. While it is appreciated for its almonds, which are harvested in October, this Mediterranean fruit tree covered in soft pink flowers is a beautiful addition to the garden in late winter. In cultivation, the Texas Almond tree is often used as a pollinator. Indeed, almond trees are not self-fertile, meaning their pollen cannot fertilize their own flowers. It is necessary to plant at least two varieties to obtain fruits. Choose Ferragnes or Princess.

Plant from Organic Agriculture

The cultivated Almond tree (Prunus dulcis) belongs to the rose family, just like cherry and plum trees. It originated from the Caucasian almond tree, known as Prunus fenzliana, a shrub native to Armenia, Turkey, and Iran. It has been cultivated for a long time in the Mediterranean region, and for a few decades in many arid regions. In order to obtain fruits, it is imperative that the flowering period does not experience frost, which limits almond tree cultivation to areas with a Mediterranean-type climate and short winters: southern China, southwestern North America (California), South America (central Chile), South Africa, and Australia.

The Texas Almond tree was obtained in Texas (US) in 1891. It is a small tree with a spreading habit, semi-open crown, and ramified branches, reaching a height of about 5m (16ft) and a spread of 4m (13ft) at maturity. This variety starts producing almonds from a young age and can live for more than a century. It has simple, thin, and pointed leaves, measuring up to 8cm (3in) long and 2.5cm (1in) wide, with dentate margins. They are medium green and slightly glossy on the upper side. The deciduous foliage turns yellow in autumn before falling. Flowering occurs in March, on bare branches. It is abundant and slightly fragrant. Each flower has 5 petals in a soft pink colour and measures about 3.5cm (1in) in diameter. This flowering period produces high-quality nectar, highly sought after by bees at this time of the year. It is followed by the formation of oblong fruits covered with a velvety green-gray skin, measuring up to 4cm (2in) long. In late summer, the skin dries and splits, revealing the shell that protects the edible almond. The harvest of Texas almonds takes place in July-August for fresh almonds and in October for dried almonds.

During the first two years after planting, the almond tree is sensitive to frost, but then it is quite hardy, tolerating temperatures as low as -12°C (10.4°F). However, cold weather makes its fruiting unpredictable as the flowers are very early. It is difficult to harvest almonds above the Lyon region. The almond tree thrives best in dry, rocky, and limestone soils, even in full sun. This tree is sensitive to soils that retain moisture to such an extent that it can deteriorate rapidly within a few days.

In plant anatomy, the almond refers to the interior of the seed. The fruits of Prunus dulcis are called almonds because only this part is consumed. The pulp surrounding the stone is not edible. In addition to enjoying this delicious fruit, you can also appreciate its fragrant flowering, which heralds the arrival of spring.

For transportation reasons, our tallest scions may be pruned before shipment. They are suitable for all common training sizes: cordons, espaliers, goblets, half-standards, and low standards, except for high standards. If you would like more information or advice on training your fruit trees, please do not hesitate to contact us.