Prunus pedunculata

(Pall.) Maxim.

Rosaceae Edible: Fruit, Seeds Potential hazards — see below 274 iNaturalist observations

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Summary

Prunus pedunculata is a species of Prunus known in China as long‑peduncled almond (长梗扁桃). It is native to China (particularly the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region), Mongolia and nearby sections of Siberia. A small bush, reaching 1-2 m, its pink flowers allow it to be used as an ornamental. Adapted to cold, arid environments, its many‑stemmed growth habit fixes blowing sand, an important contribution to succession. As Amygdalus pedunculatus Pall., it seems to be being evaluated for its seed oil potential.

Description

A shrub. It grows 1-2 m tall. The branches are spreading and there are many short branchlets. The leaves in the small branches are clustered. The leaves on the other branches are alternate and 1-4 cm long by 1-2 cm wide. The flowers occur singly. The fleshy fruit are dark purple to red. They are oval and 1-2 cm across. They are hairy.

Edible Uses

The fruit, about 10mm in diameter with a single large seed, can be eaten raw or cooked. The seed is also edible raw or cooked, but should be avoided if it tastes too bitter due to potential toxicity.

Medicinal Uses

No specific research has been recorded for this species, but like all members of the genus it contains amygdalin and prunasin, compounds that break down in water to release hydrocyanic acid (prussic acid). In small amounts this highly poisonous substance can stimulate respiration, aid digestion, and produce a sense of well-being.

Known Hazards

Seeds containing excessive bitterness indicate high hydrocyanic acid content and should not be consumed.

Distribution

Temperate. In northern China is grows on sunny pebbly slopes and on the steppes.

Where It Grows

Asia, China, Mongolia, Russia, Siberia,

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 as early in the year as possible. Protect seed 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. Cuttings of half-ripe wood with a heel can be taken in July/August in a frame. Softwood cuttings from vigorous 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 extracted from the leaves, while the fruit yields a dark grey to green dye.

Production

In northern China plants flower in May and June and fruit in July and August.

Notes

There are about 200 Prunus species.

Synonyms

Amygdalus pedunculata

References (3)

Bull. Acad. Imp. Sci. Saint-Petersbourg 29:78; Melanges Biol. Bull. Phys.-Math. Acad. Imp. Sci. Saint-Petersbourg 11:663. 1883 (Diagn. pl. nov. asiat.)
Plants for a Future, The Field, Penpol, Lostwithiel, Cornwall, PL22 0NG, UK. http://www.scs.leeds.ac.uk/pfaf/
www.efloras.org Flora of China Volume 9 (As Amygdalus pedunculata)