
One of them is the nectarine, which is a mutation of the peach. Natural genetic mutations have brought many new and wondrous plants to the world of horticulture. Some consider the almond to be a natural aphrodisiac for women.

Ground almonds can also be used to make almond butter, which is a spread similar to peanut butter. Ground almonds or almond meal and sugar are used to make marzipan, which is used in desserts and candies.

Freestone fruits have flesh that pulls away easily from the pit, making them easy to eat fresh.

The fruits of Prunus can be classified according to how their pulp is formed around the stone. Since they have fruit surrounding a stone (also known as a pit), Prunus trees and shrubs are categorized stone fruits, known scientifically as drupes. Successful pollination of many Prunus trees and shrubs requires two different varieties. Check with your local extension office for recommendations for your area, as sometimes specific varieties are unable to pollinate each other. Some varieties have been bred to have double flowers with many more petals. Prunus trees and shrubs usually have five petals and five sepals on each flower, which are often white. There are more than 400 species in this genus.Īlthough often grown for their fruit, these trees and shrubs are also grown for their ornamental flowers. These members of the Rosaceae family include many familiar grocery store staples: almonds, apricots, cherries, nectarines, peaches, and plums. Species of the Prunus genus can offer interesting foliage, beautiful flowers, and edible fruit in the home garden.

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