Prunus armeniaca Rustique Des Pyrénées - Apricot Tree

Prunus armeniaca 'Bourquin' is a self-fertile variety with a spreading flowering habit that enables it to withstand spring frosts without too much damage. It can therefore be grown in many regions. The apricots ripen in August, displaying a beautiful uniform orange colour. They have sweet and fragrant flesh.

The apricot tree is native to Central and Eastern Asia. It has been cultivated in China since 3,000 BC. Prunus armeniaca was introduced to the Mediterranean basin from Armenia, hence its name. 

'Bourquin' was selected by the Georges Delbard nursery. It is a recent variety that has the advantage of a spreading flowering habit, which enables it to withstand destructive spring frosts. It was developed in mountainous regions. This vigorous and hardy variety will bear a good number of fruits, but it will take at least 3 or 4 years to start producing. Flowering occurs throughout spring. The apricots are harvested in August. They are medium-size and are covered with smooth, uniform orange skin that blushes slightly when ripe. They have sweet, light-coloured, and fragrant flesh. Most apricot trees are self-fertile, so they do not require the presence of another variety, although cross-pollination is always more effective. A sunny location, protected from winds and facing south, will encourage fruiting. The flowering is carried on the previous year's branches, so pruning should be kept to a minimum.

Apricots are consumed fresh or dried. They can be used in jams, tarts, and compotes, or preserved in syrup. They are also found in savoury dishes. Apricot juice is often mixed with a touch of peach juice to balance the natural acidity of the apricot.

For transportation reasons, our tallest scions may be pruned before shipment. They are suitable for all common training methods: cordons, espaliers, goblets, half-standards, and low standards. They are not suitable for high standards. Please contact us if you would like more information or advice on training your fruit trees.

This fruit tree is delivered in a ready-to-plant root ball. The root ball should be planted as it is. The biodegradable cover that surrounds the root ball and preserves the rootlets will decompose on its own during the plant's growth. Leaving this cover in place will ensure better establishment.