Black Apricot
Prunus x dasycarpa
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Pl. 25ED — Prunus x dasycarpa
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IOverview
Overview
Black Apricot (Prunus x dasycarpa) is a deciduous tree native to regions of China and Central Asia including Inner Mongolia, Manchuria, and Xinjiang. This plant thrives in full sun and prefers moist, well-drained soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 4-8 and can grow up to 4.5 meters tall. Known for its edible fruit and seeds, Black Apricot has been cultivated for its fruit, which can be enjoyed fresh or used in various culinary applications. Its distinctive feature lies in its adaptability across diverse climates and soil types, making it a valuable addition to gardens and orchards in suitable regions.
Quick answers
What is Black Apricot?
Black Apricot (Prunus x dasycarpa) is a deciduous tree native to regions of China and Central Asia including Inner Mongolia, Manchuria, and Xinjiang. This plant thrives in full sun and prefers moist, well-drained soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay).
What is Black Apricot used for?
Traditionally used for digestion. Each claim is evidence-rated — see Section II for full citations.
Best for
Top 1 evidence-ranked use of Black Apricot
Clinicaluses · safety · chemistry · dosagemedicinal profile
IIBenefits & evidence
1 claim · 0 sources
Benefits & evidence
1 claim · 0 sources- Black Apricot seeds have been traditionally used in Chinese medicine to support digestion and alleviate digestive discomfort, often prepared as a decoction.
The seeds contain compounds such as amygdalin which may help with digestive issues by promoting gastric motility. However, the specific mechanism is not fully characterised.
IV·bMixology suggestions
1 draft
Mixology suggestions
1 draftEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Black Apricot support blend
generaltea
AI returned a direct ingredient list; normalized into one draft blend for editorial review.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Black Apricot thrives in full sun and prefers moist soil that is well-draining but can tolerate light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) types. It grows best in hardiness zones 4-8, making it suitable for temperate regions. This tree reaches a height of about 4.5 meters and requires regular watering to maintain its health. For propagation, consider using seeds or grafting methods.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-8
Habit
Tree
Mature size
4.5 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Black Apricot for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple planting of Black Apricot to gain experience in growing trees.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Black Apricot tree, garden gloves, and a shovel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant the tree in early spring or late autumn when temperatures are mild.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure soil is well-draining with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5; prepare a hole twice as wide but not deeper than the root ball.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant the young tree into its permanent spot, ensuring it's upright and firm the soil around the roots.
- 5
First two weeks
Water the tree thoroughly after planting; keep the soil moist but not waterlogged during this period.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun exposure for at least 6 hours a day and regular watering, especially in dry periods. Fertilize once a year with organic compost.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune the tree annually to maintain shape and remove dead branches; harvest fruit when it turns dark purple.
- 8
Common mistakes
Planting too deep, overwatering, neglecting winter protection in colder regions, not providing enough sunlight, and using chemical fertilizers.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FruitSeed
Edible uses: The Black Apricot (Prunus x dasycarpa) is eaten for its fruit and seeds. The fruit can be consumed raw or cooked in various dishes. Seeds are also utilized, often dried before use. Both parts add a unique flavor to culinary creations.
Other uses:Dye
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
10 native · 20 introduced
Distribution
10 native · 20 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 10 native· 20 introduced
Europe5 regions
introduced (5)AlbaniaFranceGermanyRussiaUkraine
Asia3 regions
native (3)ChinaKazakhstanUzbekistan
Africa2 regions
introduced (2)AlgeriaMorocco
Broader regions
native:Kriti, Kirgizstan
introduced:Michigan, Montana, Colorado, California, Iowa, Illinois, Idaho, Kansas, East Himalaya, Lebanon-Syria, Missouri, New Mexico
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family, common use cases, and growing requirements.
shared use cases
Different families, similar therapeutic role — good for comparing.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Health goals
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
About this entry
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