Prunus armeniaca Bergeron Apricot Tree - Prunus armeniaca

The most well-known variety, serving as a reference in France, the Bergeron Apricot tree is a self-fertile variety. This semi-late flowering variety, therefore resistant to cold, is particularly well adapted to temperature variations at the end of winter. Its large oblong-rounded fruits measure 5 to 5.5 cm (2in) in diameter and weigh 60-65 g. They are saffron yellow, turning red when ripe. Their flesh is particularly firm, tangy, and highly fragrant. While they can be enjoyed when very fresh, they are even more appreciated when preserved in syrup. Ripening occurs from mid-July to mid-August, thus concluding the apricot season.

The apricot tree is native to Central and Eastern Asia. It has been cultivated in China since 3,000 BC. The apricot tree we cultivate (Prunus armeniaca) was introduced to the Mediterranean basin from Armenia, hence its name, at the beginning of the Christian era. It was introduced to France during the Renaissance. In 1920, a chance seedling grown by Mr. Bergeron in Saint Cyr au Mont d'Or, near Lyon, gave rise to the Bergeron Apricot tree variety.

The Bergeron Apricot tree is adapted to colder regions. Its hardiness allows it to withstand temperatures as low as -30°C (-22°F). However, for optimal fruiting, it appreciates well-defined seasons. A sunny location, protected from the wind and facing south, will significantly improve fruiting.
This variety has a semi-erect to semi-spreading habit, indicating a slender and tall tree, with spaced foliage, whose branches have vertical growth for some and horizontal growth for others. The leaves are dentate, heart-shaped, and have a long petiole. It can reach up to 6 m (20ft) in height with a diameter of 4 m (13ft). It starts producing at 3 years old and becomes fully mature at 7 years old.

Flowering occurs in March, before the leaves emerge. It is semi-early, allowing it to avoid late winter frosts. The flowering is carried by the previous year's branches. The flower has 5 pink petals and purple sepals. It is fragrant but does not last long. Fruiting will result in the ripening of the fruits from mid-July to mid-August, the last apricots of the season. The Bergeron Apricot tree is self-fertile, so it does not require the presence of another apricot tree for pollination.

Apricots are consumed fresh, dried, or prepared in various ways: jams, pies, compotes, apricots in syrup. They are also found in savory dishes, such as rabbit with apricots and parsnips, an English recipe. Apricot juices are often mixed with a touch of peach juice to balance the natural acidity of the apricot.