| Cultivar Name: |
Moorpark
|
| Type |
Apricot |
| Synonyms |
Moor Park
|
| Patent |
Not Patented
|
| Species |
Prunus armeniaca
|
| Usage |
Scion
|
| Products |
Canning
Dried
Fresh Market
Shipping
|
| Chill Requirement |
600 chill hours required
|
| Yield |
High
|
| Flesh Color |
yellow - orange
|
| Pit |
Freestone
|
| Ripening time |
+2
weeks relative to
Blenheim
|
| Self Compatible |
Yes - Self Compatible
|
| Description |
Long-time favorite of apricot fanciers for its exceptionally rich flavor and aroma. This large apricot was developed in the eighteenth century. Considered one of the best. Fruit is deep yellow skin with an orange red blush; juicy and aromatic; sweet rich, plum-like taste; smooth; fuzzless. Brownish-red skin with specks and dots; Favorite for
fresh eating, preserves
and pies. Mature height is 20
feet with a spread of
20-25 feet.
Cold Hardy to
U.S.D.A. Zone 7. Geography/History
The apricot is native to and originally discovered in the mountainous regions of north central and north western China. Trade routes, exploration and time would spread the fruit from Asia into Europe and eventually the New World. Most New World apricots are of European origins. Central Asian apricots are still relatively new to North American growers as they do not have the visual appeal of plumper European cultivars yet they are considered to be the most delicious in fruit flavor and texture. The Moorpark cultivar was introduced into England in 1760 and was named for the estate where the tree first fruited. In the 1790s Thomas Jefferson ordered Moorpark apricot trees to plant at his home, Monticello. The Moorpark apricot, also written as Moor Park, is botanically known as Prunus armeniaca cv. ‘Moor Park.’ The Moorpark apricot has played a varied role throughout history, being mention in Jane Austen’s novel, Mansfield Park, and being a favored cultivar by Thomas Jefferson to grow at his home in Monticello. It is even said that the city of Moorpark, California was named after the Moorpark apricot trees growing in the area. |
| References |
- Fruit, Berry and Nut Inventory. Third Edition. 2001. Seed Savers Exchange, Inc.
- L.E. Cooke Co. Fruit and Nut Tree Variety Descriptions. Link
- Dave Wilson Nursery. Link
- UCANR, Growing Apricots in California:An Overview; Link
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