Dwarf Flowering Almond
prunus glandulosa
Also known as: ["Dwarf Almond","Flowering Almond"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub known for its early spring display of pink or white flowers, native to China.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","seasonal color change"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Genus: | Prunus |
| Botanical Name: | Prunus glandulosa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining loamy soil with added organic matter; avoid heavy clay.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering; light pruning can be done as needed throughout the growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorch; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; move outdoor plants to shaded areas during peak heat.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry between waterings, and avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; use raised beds for outdoor plants; avoid overwatering to prevent soil compaction.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 4–8; prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cold but benefits from protection in extreme heat.
Protect from frost; provide shade in summer; maintain consistent temperatures for optimal growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize before new growth appears; water before applying fertilizer to prevent root burn; stop fertilizing in fall.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood cuttings in summer; layering can also be effective.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings, remove lower leaves, apply rooting hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity, and keep warm.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is firm but not woody.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Peat and perlite mix or cactus mix with added sand for drainage.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 4–8 weeks; new growth may appear in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome, heat mat.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, clean tools; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to open the plant, heading cuts to encourage bushiness, and selective removal of crossing branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage flowering, and remove dead or diseased wood; best done after flowering to avoid cutting off buds.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools, prune after flowering, remove dead/diseased wood, shape the plant, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins; avoid repotting during flowering or dormancy.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (2–3 inches wider) than the current one with drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if necessary, place in a new pot with fresh soil, water thoroughly, and place in shade for a few days.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Select new pot, prepare fresh soil mix, trim roots if needed, water after repotting, adjust care temporarily.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, avoid wetting leaves, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to minimize evaporation and fungal growth.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage; avoid compacting the soil.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, wilting, yellowing, or stunted growth; buds may fail to open in extreme conditions.
Cold Stress
Leaves may turn brown or drop; growth slows or halts; frost can damage tender tissues.
Solution: Mulch around the base to insulate roots; cover plants during frost; move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or premature leaf drop; flowers may fade quickly in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Choose appropriate fertilizer, apply at correct dilution, water before and after, avoid foliage contact, follow seasonal schedule.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength monthly during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCyanogenic glycosides in Prunus species are toxic to cats, leading to cyanide poisoning and severe physiological distress.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe cyanogenic glycosides in Prunus species can cause cyanide poisoning in dogs, affecting their respiratory and nervous systems.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicContains cyanogenic glycosides which can release cyanide upon digestion, leading to poisoning. The physiological impact includes disruption of cellular respiration and oxygen transport.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Prunus glandulosa toxic to pets?
A: Yes, all parts of the plant are toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: When does Prunus glandulosa bloom?
A: It typically blooms in early spring, often before its leaves emerge.
Q: How tall does Prunus glandulosa grow?
A: It usually reaches 3–6 feet in height and spread.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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