Moorpark ApricotPrunus armeniaca
This fruit tree is known for its juicy, sweet-tasting apricots that are good for fresh eating, canning or drying. Harvest time spans from early July to early August, but the fruit does not ripen all at once. The fast-growing Moorpark apricot tree is self-fertile, but planting two varieties is recommended for a better crop.
Beyond bearing fruit, the tree is also considered an attractive landscape tree, with its spring bloom of whitish-pink flowers.
Hardiness Zones
The moorpark apricot can be expected to grow in Hardiness Zones 4–8. View Map
Tree Type
This is a fruit tree, grown primarily for the edible fruit it produces.
Mature Size
The Moorpark apricot tree grows to a height of 15–20' and a spread of 15–20' at maturity.
Growth Rate
Sun Preference
Full sun is the ideal condition for this tree, meaning it should get at least six hours of direct, unfiltered sunlight each day.
Soil Preference
The Moorpark apricot grows well in acidic, loamy, moist, rich, sandy, silty loam and well-drained soil. It is not drought-tolerant.
Attributes
- Produces large, smooth, freestone apricots with fuzzless, deep yellow skin and deep orange flesh--great for fresh eating, canning or drying.
- Yields ripe fruit typically from July to late August, but fruit does not ripen all at once.
- Is self-fertile, but planting 2 or more varieties is recommended for a better crop.
- Blooms early in the season, with whitish-pink flowers.
- Has a chill hours (CU) requirement of 600–700. (Chill hours are the average hours of air temperature between 32° and 45° F in a typical winter season.)
- Grows in a rounded shape.
History/Lore
Native to China, this apricot was introduced into England before 1688 by Lord Anson, an English Admiral. He planted them at his estate—Moor Park—in Herefordshire.