Dwarf Russian almond

prunus tenella

Also known as: ["Dwarf almond","Russian almond"]

Family: Rosaceae Genus: Prunus Category: Shrubs

Overview

A deciduous shrub with small, pink flowers and edible but bitter fruits, native to Central Asia.

Benefits & Perks

["fragrant flowers","edible fruits","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Rosales
Family: Rosaceae
Genus: Prunus
Botanical Name: Prunus tenella

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Shrubs
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a location with good air circulation
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–30–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"3–7"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining loam with organic matter; tolerates sandy or clay soils if amended.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering; light pruning can be done as needed.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed to rejuvenate.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer flowers.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to full sun gradually; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure adequate light indoors if grown as a container plant.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves with brown tips indicate overwatering; sparse growth suggests poor light or nutrient deficiency.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sun; place near south-facing window indoors.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.

Soil

well-drained, loamy soil with moderate fertility

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Ensure good drainage; enrich with organic matter; test pH if issues arise.

Temperature

Hardy in USDA zones 3–8; tolerates cold winters; prefers cool temperatures (50–70°F) during active growth.

Avoid placing near heat sources; protect from late spring frosts; ensure good air circulation in warm weather.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer

Fertilize only during active growth; dilute liquid fertilizer to half strength; avoid fertilizing newly planted specimens.

Propagation

Methods

Softwood cuttings in early summer; division of root clumps in early spring or fall.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist and warm.

Best Time: Early summer for cuttings; early spring or fall for division.

Environment

Warm (65–75°F), humid environment with indirect light; protect from direct sun.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water for cuttings.

Hormone

Rooting hormone is recommended for cuttings to improve success rate.

Timeline

Cuttings root in 4–6 weeks; division establishes in 1–2 growing seasons.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.

Quick Tips

Use sharp, clean tools; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Use clean cuts just above outward-facing buds; remove crossing or crowded branches.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, remove dead wood, and encourage flowering; best done after flowering or in late winter.

Tools

Pruning shears, loppers (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune after flowering; remove dead or diseased wood; shape as desired.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before new growth begins.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure drainage holes are clear.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with added organic matter.

Suggestions

Repot container-grown plants every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; outdoor plants rarely need repotting.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; prune roots if necessary; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the roots without wetting foliage.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add compost or well-rotted manure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; avoid heavy clay without amendments.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Leaf scorch in excessive heat; delayed bud break or dieback in prolonged cold; reduced flowering in overly warm conditions.

Cold Stress

Leaves may curl or drop; buds may not open; stems can become brittle if temperatures drop too low without protection.

Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect from harsh winds; move container plants to a sheltered location if temperatures drop below -20°F.

Hot Stress

Wilting despite moist soil; leaf edges may brown; reduced vigor and flowering.

Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase humidity around the plant; water deeply and more frequently during heatwaves.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid late-season feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; discontinue in late summer to prepare for dormancy.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Prunus tenella may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Prunus tenella can result from water stress, root damage, or disease, leading to reduced nutrient uptake and potential plant death if not addressed.

Leaf spots on Prunus tenella are often caused by fungal or bacterial infections, leading to defoliation and reduced photosynthetic capacity.

Rotting, particularly root or crown rot, can occur in Prunus tenella due to excessive moisture or fungal pathogens, causing decay and eventual plant decline.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Cats are highly sensitive to cyanogenic glycosides, which can rapidly lead to cyanide poisoning, affecting oxygen transport and causing systemic toxicity.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting lethargy difficulty breathing panting tremors seizures coma
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds stems leaves bark
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. In case of ingestion, seek emergency veterinary care without delay. Monitor the animal closely for any signs of distress.
Dogs
Toxic

The cyanogenic glycosides in Prunus tenella can cause cyanide poisoning in dogs, disrupting cellular respiration and leading to severe metabolic disturbances.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea difficulty breathing weakness tremors seizures collapse
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds stems leaves bark
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep dogs away from the plant. If ingestion occurs, contact a veterinarian immediately. Do not induce vomiting without professional guidance.
Humans
Toxic

Contains cyanogenic glycosides which release cyanide upon ingestion, leading to metabolic disruption and potential poisoning. The toxicity is most concentrated in the seeds and other plant parts when wilted or damaged.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting abdominal pain dizziness difficulty breathing weakness convulsions loss of consciousness
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds stems leaves bark
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion of any part of the plant. Keep away from children and pets. Seek immediate medical attention if poisoning is suspected.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Prunus tenella suitable for small gardens?

A: Yes, due to its compact size, it is well-suited for small garden spaces.

Q: Are the fruits of Prunus tenella edible?

A: The fruits are edible but have a bitter taste and should be consumed in moderation.

Q: Does Prunus tenella require full sun?

A: It thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.

Quick Reference
Family: Rosaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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