Information about Prunus andersonii

1. * Desert Peach – Prunus andersonii (PROO-nus an-der-SOH-nee-eye )
Family: Rosaceae (Rose Family)
Native to: Endemic to NE and N Central Sierras and western NV; usually found on dry slopes,
mesas, washes, ravines, draws, cliff bases, and rocky hillsides from 3500'-6500', yellow pine forest,
sagebrush scrub.
Growth characteristics: woody shrub/tree mature height: 3-6 ft. mature width: 3-6 ft.
Winter-deciduous woody large shrub with many short-stiff branches. Individual branches are short-
lived (5-10 years in the wild) but new branches grow each spring from an extensive network of
rhizomes and roots. Leaves are simple, peach-like, in bundles.
Blooms/fruits: Blooms in spring, usually Mar-Apr. Flowers are pink, solitary or in clusters, typical
of peach and ½ to 1 inch across. Plant extremely showy in bloom. Fruits are true peaches, likely to
be more fleshy in the garden setting than in the wild. Flavor is good. Can be used like horticultural
peaches for jam, syrups, etc.
Uses in the garden: Best known as an ornamental plant because of its showy spring blooms.
Excellent choice for hot, inland gardens. Does well on hot slopes, where it will spread. Very drought
tolerant. One of the best native fruit plants of S. CA.
Sensible substitute for: Non-native fruit plants.
Attracts: Excellent bird habitat: provides cover and fruits for food. Good nectar source for native
bees and other pollinators.
Requirements:
Element Requirement
Sun Full sun.
Soil Any well-drained soil; any local pH.
Water Very drought tolerant when established. Treat as Zone 1-2 to 2 for best fruit.
Fertilizer None
Other Inorganic mulches only.
Management: Prune out dead stems/branches in late fall.
Propagation: from seed: Moist, then cold moist treat 1-3 by cuttings: semi-soft of soft
Plant/seed sources (see list for source numbers): 1, 8, 11, 13 11/30/11
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