Title

Russian Almond

(F2132, June 2024)
File
Publication File:
Lead Author
Lead Author:
Joseph Zeleznik, Ph.D., Extension Forester
Availability
Availability:
Web only
Publication Sections

Table of Contents

General
Scientific Name: Prunus tenella
Family: Roaceae (Rose)
Hardiness: Zone 3
Leave: Deciduous
Plant Type: Shrub

Growth
Rate: Slow
Mature Height: 4' - 7'
Longevity: Short
Power Line: Yes

Ornamental
Flowers: Pink to red
Fruit: Tan, oval shaped nut
Fall Color: Yellow

Description

A low, suckering shrub native to Western Asia and Eastern Siberia. Russian almond is hardy, however its suckering habit reduces its desirability as a landscape plant. Russian almond is very useful as part of shelterbelt planting. The dense thickets it produces are excellent cover for wildlife. Abundant pink to rosy flowers appear in early spring.

Preferences

Light: Full sun.
Water: Fair drought resistance.
Soil: Prefers loamy soils. Adapted to a wide range of pH conditions.

Comments

Small brown nuts with a hard hairy shell  up to 3/4” across are possible on this plant. 

‘Fire Hill’ – Red flowers. 

‘Regal’– Released by USDA Plant Materials center in Bismarck. Useful in shelterbelts and other conservation plantings.

White Russian Almond - This variety has white flowers.

Russian Almond
Photo Credit:
Joseph Zeleznik, Ph.D., Extension Forester
Russian Almond
Russian Almond
Photo Credit:
Joseph Zeleznik, Ph.D., Extension Forester
Russian Almond
Russian Almond
Photo Credit:
Joseph Zeleznik, Ph.D., Extension Forester
Russian Almond