Prunus armeniaca Goldrich - Apricot Tree

The Goldrich Apricot Tree is a self-fertile, vigorous and productive variety. It is known, in particular, for its enormous fruits, approximately 6 to 7 cm (2 to 3in) in diameter, and heavy, averaging 275 g. Their bright orange skin encloses a fragrant, sweet and juicy flesh, slightly acidic. The harvest of these large fruits begins in mid-July.

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. Its introduction to France took place during the Renaissance. In 1954, the Goldrich Apricot Tree was created in the United States from European and Asian ancestors.

This variety has a semi-erect and semi-spreading habit, which translates into a slender and tall tree at the base, then spreading, with branches that grow horizontally, and others that grow vertically, providing good natural ventilation to the tree. The leaves are toothed, heart-shaped, and have a long petiole. It reaches up to 4 m (13ft) in height with a diameter of 3 m (10ft). It starts producing at 3 years old and becomes fully mature at 7 years old.
The flowering of the Apricot Tree occurs in late March, before the appearance of the leaves. The flowering is carried by the branches of the previous year. The flower has 5 pink petals and purple sepals. It is fragrant, but only lasts for a short time. The fruiting will result in the ripeness of the fruits starting from mid-July, for about a fortnight.

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