Prunus persica

Prunus persica, commonly known as the peach, is a deciduous tree native to the region of Northwest China between the Tarim Basin and the north slopes of the Kunlun Mountains, where it was first domesticated and cultivated. It bears an edible juicy fruit also called a peach.

Description

The Prunus persica tree grows to 4–10 m (13–33 ft) tall and 6 in. in diameter. The leaves are lanceolate, 7–16 cm (2.8–6.3 in) long, 2–3 cm (0.79–1.18 in) broad, pinnately veined. The flowers are produced in early spring before the leaves; they are solitary or paired, 2.5–3 cm diameter, pink, with five petals.

Cultivation

Peaches grow in a fairly limited range in dry, continental or temperate climates, since the trees have a chilling requirement that tropical or subtropical areas generally cannot satisfy except at high altitudes. Most cultivars require 500 hours of chilling around 0 to 10 °C (32 to 50 °F).

Uses

Peaches are not only a popular fruit, but also are symbolic in many cultural traditions, such as in art, poems and literature. They are often used in the culinary world, whether that be in a classic peach pie, peach cobbler, peach sauce, or even in savory dishes.

Varieties

There are hundreds of peach and nectarine varieties. Traditionally, they are classified into clingstones and freestones, depending on whether the flesh sticks to the stone or not; both can have either white or yellow flesh.

Health Benefits

Peaches are a rich source of vitamins A, C and E, and dietary fiber. They are low in calories, contain no saturated fat or cholesterol, and are a good source of dietary fiber.

See Also

• Prunus
• Stone fruit
• Fruit tree pruning
• Peach blossom
• Peach production in China