Prunus kansuensis
Rehder
Wild peach
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Summary
Source: WikipediaPrunus kansuensis (Chinese: 甘肃桃; pinyin: Gānsù táo; lit. 'Gansu peach'), sometimes called the Chinese bush peach, is a putative species of peach native to China. It is found in Gansu, Guizhou, Hubei, Qinghai, Shaanxi and Sichuan provinces. It is a shrub or tree 3 to 7 m (10 to 23 ft) tall, preferring to grow at 1,000 to 2,300 m (3,300 to 7,500 ft) above sea level. A genetic and morphological study has shown that it is conspecific with Prunus persica, the cultivated peach. P. kansuensis is being investigated as a source for rootstocks and for crop improvement due to its resistance to multiple diseases, to drought, and to frost. It is unaffected by peach mosaic virus, resistant to the root-knot nematode Meloidogyne incognita, and tolerates winter temperatures down to −35 °C (−31 °F).
Description
A low shrub. It is spreading. It can be 3-6 m high. The trunk is smooth. The bark is dark brown. The leaves are sword shaped and 4-8 cm long and 12-20 mm wide. They taper to the tip. There are teeth along the edge. The flowers are white. The fruit is a flattened round shape with a velvety coverng.
Edible Uses
The fruit is possibly edible and grows up to 20mm in diameter, containing a single large seed. The seed can be eaten raw or cooked, but should not be consumed if it tastes too bitter — see toxicity notes.
Traditional Uses
The ripe fruit are eaten.
This uses section is brief — help expand it
Medicinal Uses
No specific research has been recorded for this species, but all members of the genus contain amygdalin and prunasin, which break down in water to form hydrocyanic acid (cyanide or 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. It is native of north western China. It grows on loess cliffs in China.
Where It Grows
Asia, China,
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. This species is closely related to P. persica. 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. Protect seed from mice. Germination can be slow, sometimes taking 18 months. Prick out seedlings into individual pots when large enough to handle, grow on in a greenhouse or cold frame through their first winter, 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. A dark grey to green dye can be obtained from the fruit.
Other Information
The fruit are eaten especially by children.
Notes
There are about 200 Prunus species.
Synonyms
References (3)
- Hu, Shiu-ying, 2005, Food Plants of China. The Chinese University Press. p 444
- J. Arnold Arbor. 3:21. 1921
- Plants for a Future, The Field, Penpol, Lostwithiel, Cornwall, PL22 0NG, UK. http://www.scs.leeds.ac.uk/pfaf/
