Prunus armeniaca Bergeval - Bergeval Apricot Tree

Prunus armeniaca 'Bergeval' is a very successful recent creation. It is a self-fertile variety, characterised by a late flowering in April, which avoids damage from later frosts. It also benefits from rapid fruiting and excellent productivity year after year. In July, this upright apricot tree produces an abundance of semi-early apricots with an intense red-orange colour and elongated shape. They have a good size, with a diameter of 4.5 cm to 5.5 cm (1.8 in to 2 in) and a weight between 54 g and 74 g. They are of good taste quality, with firm, juicy, and highly aromatic flesh.

The apricot tree is native to Central and Eastern Asia. It has been cultivated in China for 3,000 years. The apricot tree we cultivate (Prunus armeniaca) was introduced to the Mediterranean basin from Armenia, hence its name, at the beginning of the Christian era. It was introduced to France during the Renaissance. 'Bergeval' is a creation of INRA, France, which is notably resistant to sharka (plum pox virus), the most devastating disease of the Prunus genus, which renders the fruits inedible.

'Bergeval' has a late flowering period, making it suitable for cultivation in colder regions. A sunny location, protected from winds and facing south, will encourage fruiting. This variety has an upright habit, with a fine and tall tree structure, with spaced foliage and branches that grow vertically. The leaves are dentate, heart-shaped, and have long petioles. It can reach a height of up to 5 m (16.4 ft) with a diameter of 3 m (9.8 ft). It starts producing at 3 years and reaches full maturity at 7 years. The flowering of this apricot tree occurs in April, before the appearance of leaves. The flowers are borne on the previous year's branches. The flower has 5 pink petals and purple sepals. It is fragrant but lasts only a short time. The fruit ripens in July.

'Bergeval' is self-fertile. It does not require the presence of another apricot tree for pollination.

Apricots can be consumed fresh, dried, or prepared in various ways: jams, pies, compotes, apricots in syrup, etc. They are also used in savoury dishes. Apricot juices are often mixed with a touch of peach juice to balance their natural acidity.

For transport reasons, our tallest scions may be pruned before shipment. They are suitable for all common training systems: 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.