China Almond Tree "Chinese Almond

The "China almond" plant is more commonly known as the "Chinese Almond" or "Chinese Sweet Almond." Its scientific name is Prunus dulcis var. dulcis. Here is a description of the plant:

1. Botanical Description: The Chinese almond is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is closely related to the common almond (Prunus dulcis) but is a distinct variety. The tree has an upright growth habit and can reach a height of 4-6 meters (13-20 feet) when fully mature.

2. Leaves: The leaves of the Chinese almond are lance-shaped, serrated at the edges, and grow alternately on the branches. The leaves are bright green during the growing season and turn yellow in the fall before shedding in winter.

3. Flowers: The tree produces small, fragrant, and attractive white to pale pink flowers in early spring. These flowers are borne in clusters and provide a beautiful display when the tree is in bloom.

4. Fruits: The fruits of the Chinese almond are similar to those of the common almond. They are small, oval-shaped drupes with a green outer hull that turns brown and splits open when the fruit is ripe. Inside the hull is a hard shell that encloses the edible almond kernel or seed.

5. Almond Kernels: The edible almond kernels inside the fruit have a sweet and nutty flavor. They are commonly used in various culinary applications, including baking, cooking, and as a snack.

6. Cultivation: Chinese almonds prefer well-draining soil and a sunny location. They are relatively hardy and can tolerate a range of temperatures, but they thrive in temperate to subtropical climates. The tree can be propagated from seeds or grafted onto rootstocks for improved characteristics.

7. Uses: Chinese almond trees are not only valued for their edible almonds but also for their ornamental qualities. They are often planted in gardens and landscapes for their beautiful spring blossoms.

It's worth noting that the "Chinese Almond" is different from the "Bitter Almond" (Prunus dulcis var. amara), which contains toxic compounds and is not typically consumed directly. Always ensure that you are dealing with the sweet variety (Prunus dulcis var. dulcis) when handling and consuming almonds.