Peach, Common Peach, Persian Peach, Pêcher (French), Brugnonier (for nectarines)
Prunus persica
🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
Peaches are primarily grown for their edible fruit, consumed fresh, canned, frozen, or processed into jams, jellies, and juices. The kernels inside the pits can be used to produce oil (though containing amygdalin, a precursor to cyanide, requiring careful processing). Peach leaves can be used to make teas. In the garden, peach trees can be used as shade trees and provide early spring blossoms for pollinators. Dwarf cultivars are suitable for small gardens or container growing. Nectarines are a hairless variety with similar uses.
Permapeople description
The peach, scientifically known as Prunus persica, is a deciduous tree native to northwest China. It typically grows to be about 10-30 feet tall, with a short trunk and a rounded crown. The leaves are oval-shaped, with serrated edges and a glossy, dark green color. The flowers are pink and white, with five petals each.
Peaches are known for their fuzzy, peach-colored skin and juicy, sweet flesh. They can be eaten fresh, canned, or cooked into dishes such as pies and cobblers. The edible parts of the peach include the flesh and the seed, which contains a small kernel that can be ground into flour. Peaches can be stored after harvest by keeping them in a cool, dry place.
Peaches prefer well-draining, loamy soil and full sun. They can be grown in a variety of climates, but do best in warm, temperate regions. To cultivate peaches successfully, growers may need to provide support for the trees, prune them regularly, and protect them from pests and diseases. Peaches are generally winter hardy, but can be damaged by frost.
In addition to being eaten fresh, peaches have a variety of uses. The flowers can be used in herbal teas, and the leaves can be used to make a yellow dye. The wood of the tree can be used for smoking meat, and the kernels can be used to make oil. Peaches are also a valuable food source for wildlife, attracting birds, squirrels, and other animals.
Botanical description
Prunus persica is a deciduous tree native to China, belonging to the Rosaceae family. It typically grows to 4-10 meters tall. The leaves are lanceolate, 7-16 cm long and 2-3 cm broad, with a serrated margin. The flowers are produced in early spring before the leaves, solitary or in pairs, pink, with five petals. The fruit is a drupe with a single large seed enclosed in a hard endocarp (the 'stone' or 'pit'), with juicy flesh that is yellow or whitish with a red blush. The skin is velvety. Various cultivars exist with different flesh colors, textures, and freestone or clingstone characteristics.
Companion planting
Favorable companions include basil, chives, garlic, comfrey, tansy and yarrow, which can deter pests and attract beneficial insects. Avoid planting near brassicas (cabbage, broccoli) as they can compete for nutrients and attract pests.
Propagation methods
Peach trees are typically propagated by grafting onto suitable rootstock (almond, peach, or plum rootstock). Budding is also common. Seeds can be used, but offspring will not be true to type. Cuttings are possible but more challenging.
History and traditions
The peach originated in China and has been cultivated there since ancient times. It spread westward along the Silk Road to Persia and then to Europe. The Romans introduced it to Europe. In many cultures, the peach symbolizes longevity, immortality, and prosperity. In traditional Chinese medicine, various parts of the peach tree have been used for their medicinal properties.
Usage calendar
Flowering: Early Spring (March-April). Harvesting: Summer (June-September, depending on cultivar). Planting: Late Winter/Early Spring (dormant season). Pruning: Late Winter/Early Spring (dormant season).