Prunus armeniaca Tardif de Tain Apricot Tree

The Tardif de Tain Apricot is a self-fertile variety, highly productive and late both in terms of flowering and fruit ripeness. It produces large fruits measuring 5.5 cm (2in) in diameter and weighing between 60 and 80 g. Their red skin on an orange background covers a firm and melting flesh, juicy, sweet and slightly acidic. They store well after harvest. The harvest takes place, depending on the region, from late July to August.

The apricot tree originates from Central and Eastern Asia. It has been cultivated in China for 3,000 years before Christ. The apricot tree we cultivate (Prunus armeniaca) was introduced into the Mediterranean basin from Armenia, hence its name, at the beginning of the Christian era. 

The Tardif de Tain Apricot has late flowering, which makes it suitable for cultivation in colder regions. A sunny location, protected from winds and facing south, will encourage fruiting.
This variety has a semi-erect habit, indicating a slender and tall tree, with spaced foliage, whose branches have vertical growth. The leaves are toothed, heart-shaped, and have a long petiole. It reaches a height of up to 4 m (13ft) with a diameter of 2 m (7ft). It starts producing at 3 years old and becomes fully mature at 7 years old.
The flowering of this Apricot tree occurs in April, before the appearance of the leaves. The flowering is carried by the previous year's branches. The flower has 5 pink petals and purple sepals. It is fragrant, but does not last long. Late, the fruit ripens from late July in the warmer regions.
The Tardif de Tain Apricot is self-fertile. It does not require the presence of another apricot tree for pollination.

Apricots are consumed fresh, dried, or prepared in various ways: jams, pies, compotes, apricots in syrup... They are also found in savoury dishes, such as rabbit with apricots and parsnips, an English recipe. Apricot juices are often mixed with a touch of peach juice to balance the natural acidity of the apricot.

For transportation reasons, our tallest scions may be pruned before shipment. They are suitable for all common training systems: cordons, espaliers, goblets, half-standards, and low standards, except for tall standards. If you would like more information or advice on the training of your fruit trees, do not hesitate to contact us.