Prunus tenella aka Russian Almond

Taxonomy

Prunus tenella, also known as the dwarf Russian almond, is a small deciduous shrub native to steppes of Eastern Europe, Western Siberia, Caucasus, and parts of Western and Central Asia. This ornamental plant is highly valued for its profuse spring blossom and exceptional winter hardiness. With narrow, glossy dark green leaves, it grows to a height of 1.5 meters (5 ft). The bowl-shaped deep pink flowers of Prunus tenella open before the leaves in spring, creating a stunning display. It produces small almond-like hairy fruits with a unique flavor. While it was once classified under Prunus sect. Amygdalus, recent molecular phylogenetic studies have shown its close relation to bush cherries, apricots, and plums instead of almonds. A popular cultivar of Prunus tenella is 'Fire Hill', which boasts beautiful red flowers. In the wild, this shrub tends to grow in clusters of one to three. The Latin specific epithet "tenella" translates to "tender" or "delicate," reflecting its delicate nature.

Common names

Russian Almond, Dwarf Russian Almond

How to care for Russian Almond

Difficulty

With its straightforward care requirements, Russian Almond is a hassle-free plant that anyone can enjoy.

Water

Russian Almond should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

If you're planting Russian Almond, you need to make sure you use a potting soil that can retain moisture. While the soil should still be able to drain well, it should contain plenty of organic matter like coco coir or sphagnum moss to help it stay moist and nourish the roots of your plants. This is especially important since Dwarf Russian Almond is especially sensitive to dry soil. You can also add other amendments, such as compost, to help retain moisture and provide extra nutrients to your plants. Be sure to keep the soil evenly moist, but not soggy, throughout the growing season. With the right soil and proper care, your Russian Almond will thrive!

Lighting

Russian Almond requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Dwarf Russian Almond will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.

Dormancy

During the wintertime, it is common for Russian Almond plants to go dormant and their growth rate may slow down. Therefore, the amount of waterings should be spaced out more.

Toxicity

No verified data on the toxicity of this plant exists within Ploi's records. Should you, someone in your family, or your pet ingest plant material with an unknown toxicity level, it is recommended to seek medical advice.

Fertilizer

The Russian Almond is known for its slow growth and doesn't require fertilizing beyond its potting soil. Replacing the soil in its pot once a year should offer it sufficient nutrition. It's essential to remember that plants get their energy from the sun, not from fertilizers.


More info:
Wikipedia