Prunus persica
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.
Pronunciation
- /ˈpruːnəs ˈpɜːrsɪkə/
Etymology
The scientific name Prunus persica derives from the species' widespread cultivation in Persia (modern-day Iran), from where it was transplanted to Europe. The specific name persica refers to its widespread cultivation in Persia, now Iran.
Description
The Prunus persica tree grows to 4–10 m (13–33 ft) tall and 6 in. (15 cm) 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 and uses
The Prunus persica is widely cultivated for its fruit, the peach, in temperate regions. It is also grown for its ornamental qualities, such as its pink blossoms and glossy green leaves.
Related terms
- Prunus: The genus to which the peach tree belongs.
- Peach: The fruit of the Prunus persica tree.
- Deciduous: Trees or shrubs that shed their leaves annually.
- Tarim Basin: An endorheic basin in Northwest China where the peach tree was first domesticated.
- Kunlun Mountains: One of the longest mountain chains in Asia, extending more than 3,000 km.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Prunus persica
- Wikipedia's article - Prunus persica
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