Apricot

Apricot

Introduction

Apricot, also known by its scientific name Prunus armeniaca, is a fruit tree that belongs to the Rosaceae family. The fruit of the apricot tree is a drupe, which is similar in appearance to a small peach. The apricot tree is native to China, but it has been cultivated in many parts of the world for thousands of years.

History

The apricot tree is believed to have originated in China over 4000 years ago. It was introduced to the Western world by Alexander the Great after his conquest of Persia in 330 BC. The fruit was highly prized by the Greeks and Romans and was often used in their culinary and medicinal practices.

Description

The apricot tree is a deciduous tree that can reach heights of up to 9 meters. Its leaves are ovate and finely serrated, and its bark is smooth and grayish-brown. The apricot tree produces small, fragrant, pink or white flowers in early spring, which are followed by the fruit in the summer.

The fruit of the apricot tree is a drupe that is usually yellow or orange in color with a velvety skin. It has a large, hard pit in the center, which contains the seed. The flesh of the fruit is juicy and sweet, with a slightly tangy flavor.

Cultivation

Apricot trees prefer a warm, dry climate and well-drained soil. They are typically grown in areas with mild winters and hot summers, such as the Mediterranean and California. The apricot tree can be propagated by seed or by grafting, and it typically takes 3-4 years for the tree to begin producing fruit.

Uses

Apricots are primarily eaten fresh, but they can also be used in a variety of culinary applications. They can be dried, canned, or used in jams and jellies. Apricot kernels can also be used in the production of amaretto liqueur and other almond-flavored products.

The apricot tree is also valued for its wood, which is used in the production of furniture and other decorative items.

Health Benefits

Apricots are a good source of fiber, vitamin A, and potassium. They are also high in antioxidants, which can help protect against oxidative stress and inflammation. Eating apricots may also help improve digestive health and lower cholesterol levels.

Gallery

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  Apricot Tree

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  Apricots

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  Prunus armeniaca Nubra Valley

Fun facts about apricot

• Are you aware that apricots are a member of the rose family?
• Are you aware that there are many varieties of apricots; Pattersons, Blenheims, Tiltons, Castlebrites?
• Are you aware that apricots may be eaten raw or cooked?
• Are you aware that apricots are a relative of the peach?
• Are you aware that that apricots ripen earlier than most

Other summer fruits

• Are you aware that that apricots are very sweet?
• Are you aware that that any recipe that contains peaches or nectarines can be substituted with apricots?

APRICOT

Portion	100 g
Vitamin A, IU	368 IU
Vitamin C, total ascorbic acid	17.6 mg
Protein	0 g
Total lipid (fat)	0 g
Carbohydrate, by difference	13.53 g
Energy	53 kcal
Sugars, total including NLEA	13.53 g
Sodium, Na	6 mg

Trivia

Apricot trees are often used in Chinese medicine to treat coughs and asthma. The word "apricot" comes from the Arabic word "al-birquq", which means "early ripening fruit". In some cultures, apricots are considered to be symbols of good luck and happiness.

In Popular Culture

In the classic novel "Les Misérables" by Victor Hugo, the character Fantine sings a song called "Come to Me" in which she mentions apricots. In the film "The Godfather", Don Corleone is seen peeling an apricot while giving advice to his godson. The video game "Animal Crossing" features an item called the "Apricot Chair".

Conclusion

Apricots are a delicious and nutritious fruit that have been enjoyed for thousands of years. They are versatile and can be eaten fresh or used in a variety of culinary applications. In addition to their culinary uses, apricots have also been valued for their medicinal properties and are used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments. Overall, the apricot is a fascinating and important fruit that has played an important role in human history and culture.

See also

Peach Nectarine Plum

External links

Apricot (Prunus armeniaca L.) Fruit as a Source of Bioactive Compounds from the Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry

Nutritional information on Apricot

NB:Carbohydrate, by difference(total carbs-fiber) is also called net carbs