Title

Manchurian Apricot

(F2134, June 2024)
File
Publication File:
Lead Author
Lead Author:
Joseph Zeleznik, Ph.D., Extension Forester
Availability
Availability:
Web only
Publication Sections

Table of Contents

General
Scientific Name: Prunus armeniaca var. mandshurica
Family: Rosaceae (Rose)
Hardiness: Zone 3
Leaves: Deciduous
Plant Type: Tree

Growth
Rate: Medium
Mature Height: 10’-15’
Longevity: Medium
Power Line: Yes

Ornamental
Flowers: White to pink
Fruit: Small red stone fruit
Fall Color: Yellow to orange

Description

A small, upright, fast growing tree with a rounded, spreading form. Manchurian apricot is winter hardy and drought resistant. Native to Manchuria and Korea, it is known for its superb early spring flower display and golden orange fall color. It also produces edible fruit. Its early flowering does make it susceptible to spring frost damage.

Preferences

Light: Full sun.
Water: Will not withstand ponding, moderately drought tolerant.
Soil: Grows best in loam soils with a pH of 6-7.5.

Comments

Apricots are more productive when cross-pollinated from a different cultivar. Cultivated varieties include:

Mandan apricot (Prunus armeniaca var. mandshurica ‘Mandan’) - Released by USDA-ARS, Northern Great Plains Research Station, Mandan, North Dakota. A seed strain cultivar.

‘Moongold’ and ‘Sungold’ apricots - Released by U. Minnesota. These two cultivars should be used together for cross-pollination.

Other cold-hardy cultivars that also produce excellent fruit include: ‘Scout’, ‘Debbie’s Gold’, ‘Westcot’, and ‘Brookcot’.

Manchurian Apricot
Photo Credit:
Joseph Zeleznik, Ph.D., Extension Forester
Manchurian Apricot
Manchurian Apricot
Photo Credit:
Joseph Zeleznik, Ph.D., Extension Forester
Manchurian Apricot
Manchurian Apricot
Photo Credit:
Joseph Zeleznik, Ph.D., Extension Forester
Manchurian Apricot