Peach - Prunus persica (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images, Toxic)

Peach

Peach is native to Northwest China. China, Spain, and Italy are the top three producers of peaches world-wide. The peach is also the state fruit of Georgia. Peach production in the US in 2017 was valued at $599 million. The fruit has a yellow or white flesh, a sweet aroma, and a skin that is either velvety (peaches) or smooth (nectarines).

Scientific classification

Species

Peach (Prunus persica)

Roses, elms, figs, and allies

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Toxic to Human & Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Tree, Shrub

Plant Type

Early spring, Mid spring

Bloom Time

Mid summer, Late summer

Harvest Time

2 m to 8 m

Plant Height

6 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2.5 cm to 3.5 cm

Flower Size

Red, Gold

Fruit Color

Pink, White, Red

Flower Color

Green, Red, Brown

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Peach

Distribution of Peach

Distribution Map

Peach is a cultivar native to north-central China. Its original habitat is unknown because it has been cultivated for so long. The introduction of this widely popular fruit crop has occurred worldwide, and it now grows in many areas from North America to New Zealand.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Roadsides, fencerows, abandoned farms, streamsides, canyons

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Economic Value

Oils can be extracted from the peach kernels; peach wood can be used for sculptures.

Beauty Improvement Value

Peach blossoms can moisturize skin and prevent wrinkles.

Garden Use

Peach is a fruit-bearing deciduous tree commonly found in orchards or gardens. It is prized for its rich foliage, which turns golden in autumn, and beautiful springtime blossoms. Its low-lying branches provide shade. Peaches can be a feature of a greenhouse or grow outdoors in milder climates or sheltered areas. Plant with shade-loving ground cover blooms such as daffodils or snowdrops for color contrast.

Symbolism

Longevity, health, good fortune

Interesting Facts

Peach trees have been cultivated for their fruit since the Stone Age, and may have been domesticated in China as long ago as 6000 BCE. Peaches have long held significance in Chinese literature and mythology, having been mentioned in ancient writings, and were held to have magical powers. To this day, China leads the world in peach production.

Name Story

Peach: The ancient Romans called the plant "Persian apple", and then later changed Persian into peche, from old French. Gradually, it has become known as the peach.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Peach, including the following common varieties :

Peach 'Golden Jubilee'Peach 'Bonanza'

Toxicity

While peach fruit is edible, the twigs, leaves, and seeds contain cyanogenic glucosides, posing a severe threat to humans and animals. Ingestion can lead to difficulty breathing, shock, and potentially death. Veterinary care is advised for pets exhibiting symptoms. Avoid accidental ingestion as the cyanide in older, wilting parts is especially potent.

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Quickly Identify Peach

Lanceolate leaves with serrated margins, 3-6 inches (7.6-15.2 cm) long

Pink flowers with five petals, 1-1.5 inches (2.5-3.8 cm) wide

Fruits measuring 2.5-3 inches (6.4-7.6 cm), yellow to deep red

Alternate leaves with toothed margins, 2-6 inches (5-15 cm) long

Stems with reddish young growth, 0.5 inches (1.2 cm) thick, regular branching pattern

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Care Guide for Peach

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Peach, originating from a temperate climate, thrives with moderate water availability. Watering should be done every 1-2 weeks, maintaining even moisture without waterlogging. Its needs increase during active growth in spring and summer, while reducing in the dormant winter months.

Fertilize: For optimal growth and fruit production in peach, use balanced fertilizers in spring, applying 1 pound per year per tree (up to 12 pounds for mature trees). Avoid late-season applications to prevent frost damage. A slow-release formula reduces root burn risk, benefiting all gardeners.

Pruning: Peach benefits from late winter pruning to encourage growth and improve fruit quality. Key techniques involve removing damaged branches, thinning crowds for air circulation, and shaping for sunlight access. Regular pruning promotes healthy growth, enhances fruit quality, and prevents disease, ensuring productive trees.

Propagation: Peach thrives in well-drained, fertile soils and sunny locations. Propagation involves semi-hardwood cuttings from healthy branches, ideally treated with rooting hormone. A humid, stable environment and consistent moisture levels are essential for successful rooting, which may take several weeks before new growth appears.

Repotting: Repotting 'peach' every 2-3 years during late winter is ideal for growth. Use a large container for root expansion, ensure consistent watering without overwatering, and apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer. 'peach' thrives in sunny spots and well-drained soil.

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Images of Peach

Distribution of Peach

Culture

Cultivars

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Peach

Care Guide for Peach

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