Prunus fenzliana
Fritsch
Fenzel almond
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Summary
Source: WikipediaPrunus fenzliana is a species of wild almond native to the Caucasus areas of Turkey, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Iran, and Turkmenistan, preferring to grow at 1400-3500 m above sea level. On the basis of morphology it has been long thought to be one of the wild species that contributed to the origin of the cultivated almond (Prunus dulcis). Genetic testing of both nuclear and chloroplast DNA has confirmed that it is the closest relative (and presumed lone ancestor) of Prunus dulcis.
Description
A deciduous shrub reaching 1.5 m tall. Hardy to UK zone 4. Flowers in April. Hermaphroditic, insect-pollinated blooms. Tolerates light sandy, medium loamy, and heavy clay soils preferring well-drained conditions. Grows in mildly acid, neutral, or basic soils. Adapts to semi-shade or full sun, preferring moist soil.
Edible Uses
The fruit can be eaten raw or cooked. Its exact size is not known, but it contains a seed with a shell measuring 2.5cm × 1.5cm. The seed is also edible raw or cooked, but should not be eaten if it tastes too bitter.
Medicinal Uses
No specific research has been recorded for this species, but all members of the genus contain amygdalin and prunasin, compounds that break down in water to release hydrocyanic acid (prussic acid or cyanide). In small amounts this exceedingly poisonous compound stimulates respiration, improves digestion and gives a sense of well-being.
Known Hazards
All Prunus species contain amygdalin and prunasin, which break down in water to form hydrocyanic acid; in small amounts this exceedingly poisonous compound stimulates respiration, improves digestion, and gives sense of well-being.
Distribution
Temperate.
Where It Grows
Armenia, Azerbaijan, Caucasus,
Cultivation
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. Closely related to P. communis. 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 and protected from mice. Germination can be slow, sometimes taking 18 months. Prick out seedlings into individual pots when large enough to handle, overwinter them in a greenhouse or cold frame, and plant out in late spring or early summer the following year. Cuttings of half-ripe wood 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
A green dye can be obtained from the leaves, and a dark grey to green dye from the fruit.
Other Information
It is cultivated.
Notes
There are about 200 Prunus species.
Synonyms
References (4)
- Plants for a Future, The Field, Penpol, Lostwithiel, Cornwall, PL22 0NG, UK. http://www.scs.leeds.ac.uk/pfaf/
- Postman, J. D., et al, 2012, Recent NPGS Coordinated Expeditions in the Trans-Caucasus Region to Collect Wild Relatives of Temperate Fruit and Nut Crops. In Acta Horticulturae Number 948 p 191-198
- Sitzungsber. Kaiserl. Akad. Wiss., Wien, Math.-Naturwiss. Cl., Abt. 1, 101:632, t. 2. 1892
- Zeven, A. C. & de West, J. M. J., 1982, Dictionary of cultivated plants and their regions of diversity. Wageningen. p 100 (As Amygdalis fenzliana)
