Prunus besseriana

Schott.

Dwarf almond, Russian almond

Rosaceae Edible: Fruit, Seeds Potential hazards — see below

No photos yet for Prunus besseriana

Summary

A deciduous tree that is hermaphroditic and insect-pollinated. Tolerates light sandy, medium loamy, and heavy clay soils with good drainage. Grows in mildly acidic to mildly alkaline conditions. Can thrive in semi-shade or full sun and prefers consistently moist soil.

Description

Edible Uses

The fruit is edible, though no further details are given; it contains a single large seed. The seed yields an edible oil that is similar in flavour and quality to bitter almond oil, though slightly inferior. A bitter almond essential oil is also produced from the plant, apparently obtained by infusing the leaves rather than from the seed itself.

Traditional Uses

The seeds are the source of an oil. The fruit is eaten. If it is bitter it should be avoided or cooked to remove the cyanide.

This uses section is brief — help expand it

Medicinal Uses

No specific medicinal uses have been recorded for this species, but all members of the genus contain amygdalin and prunasin, which break down in water to release hydrocyanic acid (prussic acid). In small amounts this exceedingly poisonous compound stimulates respiration, improves digestion and gives a sense of well-being.

Known Hazards

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 flavour. 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.

Distribution

Temperate.

Where It Grows

Asia, Europe, Siberia,

Cultivation

We have very little information on this species and do not know how hardy it will be in Britain, though judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors in most parts of this country. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Thrives in a well-drained moisture-retentive loamy soil. Prefers some lime in the soil but is likely to become chlorotic if too much lime is present. Succeeds in sun or partial shade though it fruits better in a sunny position. Most members of this genus are shallow-rooted and will produce suckers if the roots are damaged. Plants in this genus are notably susceptible to honey fungus.

Propagation

Seed requires 2–3 months of cold stratification and is best sown in a cold frame as soon as it is ripe. Stored seed should be sown in a cold frame as early in the year as possible, with protection from mice. Germination can be slow, sometimes taking 18 months. Prick seedlings into individual pots when large enough to handle, overwinter in a greenhouse or cold frame, then plant out in late spring or early summer the following year. Half-ripe wood cuttings with a heel can be taken in July/August in a frame. Softwood cuttings from strongly growing plants can be taken in spring to early summer in a frame. Layering can be done in spring.

Other Uses

The plant is used as a frost-resistant rootstock, possibly for the peach. The leaves yield a green dye and the fruit a dark grey to green dye.

Notes

There are about 200 Prunus species. It is used as a frost resistant rootstock for almond. The name is ambiguous.

Synonyms

Amygdalus besseriana Schott.Amygdalus nana

References (3)

Facciola, S., 1998, Cornucopia 2: a Source Book of Edible Plants. Kampong Publications, p 193 (As Amygdalus besseriana)
Plants for a Future database, The Field, Penpol, Lostwithiel, Cornwall, PL22 0NG, UK. http://www.scs.leeds.ac.uk/pfaf/
Uphof,