Contents
Description
Prunus Apetala Var. Pilosa, also known as the hairy apricot, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Rosaceae family. This plant is native to China and is commonly cultivated for its ornamental value. It can grow up to 15 feet tall and 10 feet wide, with a rounded shape and dense foliage. The leaves of this plant are simple, alternate, and oval-shaped, with serrated edges. The flowers are pink or white and appear in clusters in early spring. The fruit of the hairy apricot is a small drupe that is edible but not commonly consumed.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Prunus |
| Species | Prunus apetala |
| Variety | Pilosa |
Appearance
The hairy apricot has a dense, rounded shape and can grow up to 15 feet tall and 10 feet wide. The leaves of this plant are simple, alternate, and oval-shaped, with serrated edges. They are approximately 2 to 4 inches long and 1.5 to 2.5 inches wide. The foliage is dark green and turns yellow in the fall. The flowers are pink or white and appear in clusters in early spring. The fruit of the hairy apricot is a small drupe that is yellow-orange in color and approximately 1 inch in diameter.
Care Guide
Prunus Apetala Var. Pilosa prefers well-draining soil and full sun exposure. It is drought-tolerant but benefits from regular watering during the growing season. Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Prune the plant in the late winter or early spring to maintain its shape and remove any dead or damaged branches. The hairy apricot is hardy to USDA hardiness zones 6 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The hairy apricot is susceptible to various pests and diseases, including aphids, scale insects, spider mites, and powdery mildew. Control pests by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Prevent powdery mildew by providing good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Prunus Apetala Var. Pilosa is native to China and is commonly cultivated for its ornamental value in gardens and parks. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun exposure.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the fruit of the hairy apricot edible?
A: Yes, the fruit is edible but not commonly consumed.
Q: When should I prune my hairy apricot?
A: Prune the plant in the late winter or early spring to maintain its shape and remove any dead or damaged branches.
Q: What are some common pests of the hairy apricot?
A: Aphids, scale insects, spider mites, and powdery mildew are common pests of this plant.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Prunus Apetala Var. Pilosa?
A: The plant is hardy to USDA hardiness zones 6 to 9.
Related Plants
- Prunus Americana
- Prunus Armeniaca
- Prunus Avium
- Prunus Cerasifera
- Prunus Cerasus
- Prunus Domestica
- Prunus Dulcis
- Prunus Laurocerasus
- Prunus Mume
- Prunus Persica
References
- “Prunus apetala – Hairy Apricot.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d441.
- “Prunus apetala var. pilosa.” PlantFiles, www.garden.org/plants/view/161398/Prunus-apetala-var-pilosa/.
- “Hairy apricot.” PlantVillage, plantvillage.psu.edu/topics/hairy-apricot/infos.
- “Hairy Apricot (Prunus apetala var. pilosa).” Dave’s Garden, davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/161398/.
