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Peach blossom

Prunus persica

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Peach blossom · Prunus persica

Pale pink flowers on bare branches, the symbol of spring in northern Vietnam.

Care and placement

Needs full sun (6–8 hours), well-drained soil and a climate with a cool season (northern or highland Vietnam); prune after flowering; seeds, leaves and stems are toxic.

Draft mature dimensions

Maximum height (cm): 300 cm · Maximum spread (cm): 250 cm

Things to consider

Prunus (peach, plum, cherry) contains cyanogenic glycosides: ASPCA lists it as toxic to dogs, cats and horses — stems, leaves and seeds can cause cyanide poisoning, especially when wilted; NC State rates it medium severity. Keep children and pets from chewing seeds, leaves or twigs.

Unknown evidence does not mean safe. Decorative plants are not automatically edible.

Information is compiled from multiple reputable sources for reference. If you spot an error, please contact us so we can check and update it.

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How to grow and care for it

  1. Planting and pot

    Plant in full sun sheltered from strong wind (which damages flowers), in well-drained, moist, slightly acidic soil; use a large pot with drainage holes if potted.

  2. Light

    Full sun, about 6–8+ hours, for best flowering (RHS: a sheltered south- or west-facing spot); UF/IFAS: full sun or partial shade.

  3. Watering

    Keep soil moderately moist and well drained; water regularly when dry and avoid waterlogging. Potted trees need more frequent watering.

  4. Feeding

    A modest balanced fertilizer or a ring of compost in early spring as buds swell; excess pushes leaves and invites pests.

  5. Pruning

    Ornamental peaches need little pruning (RHS); prune after flowering to remove small fruit and shape. Excessive pruning stimulates dense inner sprouts.

  6. Propagation

    Peach cultivars are propagated by grafting or budding; RHS also lists seed and softwood cuttings with bottom heat. Seed-grown plants do not come true to type.

  7. Pests and common problems

    Peach leaf curl (fungal): red, curled, distorted leaves — spray copper as buds swell before colour shows in late winter (never while in flower) and prune out infected shoots. Borers and aphids occur. Ask local extension for resistant cultivars and suitable controls.

  8. For more flowers

    For more flowers: full sun, enough winter chill for chill-requiring cultivars, shelter from wind in bloom, modest feeding, light pruning after flowering and leaf curl control. Pink flowers open on bare branches in early spring.