Apricot

The sunny fruit that came from Central Asia

The apricot is the first tree to bloom in spring: in March it is covered in white-pink flowers. It comes from Central Asia and China, and Uzbekistan has grown it for 1,000 years. In summer people eat fresh apricots, in winter dried apricots and their kernels. In the Fergana Valley apricot orchards are called 'sun gardens'. One tree bears fruit for 50 years.

The apricot (Prunus armeniaca) originates in Central Asia (Tian Shan) and China; its Latin name means 'Armenian' (Romans met it via Armenia). Uzbekistan is a world leader (over 500,000 tonnes a year, second to Turkey) with more than 200 local varieties: 'Subhony', 'Isfarak', 'Kandak'. It flowers early (March), so spring frost is the main risk. The fruit is rich in beta-carotene and potassium; dried apricots are a winter vitamin source, a drying tradition of the Fergana Valley. Kernels of sweet varieties are eaten like nuts. The tree is 5–8 m, lives 50–70 years and tolerates drought. Kokand, the 'apricot city', holds a blossom festival in March.

Fun facts

• Uzbekistan is the world's second-largest apricot grower.
• The apricot's Latin name means 'Armenian', but its home is our mountains.
• The apricot blooms first in spring, before its leaves appear.