Uses
Toxic parts
Although no specific mention has been seen for this species, it belongs to a genus where most, if not all members of the genus produce hydrogen cyanide, a poison that gives almonds their characteristic flavour. This toxin is found mainly in the leaves and seed and is readily detected by its bitter taste. It is usually present in too small a quantity to do any harm but any very bitter seed or fruit should not be eaten. In small quantities, hydrogen cyanide has been shown to stimulate respiration and improve digestion, it is also claimed to be of benefit in the treatment of cancer. In excess, however, it can cause respiratory failure and even death.
Edible uses
Notes
Fruit
[1][2]. No more details are given. The fruit contains a single large seed.
An edible oil is obtained from the seed[2]. It is similar in flavour and quality, though a little inferior to 'bitter almond oil'[2].
A bitter almond oil is produced from the plant
[2]. (This is a separate report from the seed oil and so is probably an essential oil obtained by infusing the leaves[K]).
Material uses
The plant is used as a frost-resistant rootstock
[2] (for the peach?)
A green dye can be obtained from the leaves[3].
A dark grey to green dye can be obtained from the fruit
[3].
Although no specific mention has been seen for this species, all members of the genus contain amygdalin and prunasin, substances which break down in water to form hydrocyanic acid (cyanide or prussic acid). In small amounts this exceedingly poisonous compound stimulates respiration, improves digestion and gives a sense of well-being
[4].
There are no medicinal uses listed for Prunus besseriana.
Ecology
Ecosystem niche/layer
Ecological Functions
Forage
Nothing listed.
Shelter
Nothing listed.
Propagation
Seed - requires 2 - 3 months cold stratification and is best sown in a cold frame as soon as it is ripe
[5]. Sow stored seed in a cold frame as early in the year as possible
[5]. Protect the seed from mice etc. The seed can be rather slow, sometimes taking 18 months to germinate
[6]. Prick out the seedlings into individual pots when they are large enough to handle. Grow them on in a greenhouse or cold frame for their first winter and plant them out in late spring or early summer of the following year.
Cuttings of half-ripe wood with a heel, July/August in a frame[7][5].
Softwood cuttings from strongly growing plants in spring to early summer in a frame[5].
Layering in spring.
Practical Plants is currently lacking information on propagation instructions of Prunus besseriana. Help us fill in the blanks! Edit this page to add your knowledge.
Cultivation
We have very little information on this species and do not know how hardy it will be in Britain, though judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors in most parts of this country. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus.
Thrives in a well-drained moisture-retentive loamy soil[7][5]. Prefers some lime in the soil but is likely to become chlorotic if too much lime is present[8]. Succeeds in sun or partial shade though it fruits better in a sunny position[7][5].
Most members of this genus are shallow-rooted and will produce suckers if the roots are damaged[4].
Plants in this genus are notably susceptible to honey fungus
[5].
Crops
Problems, pests & diseases
Associations & Interactions
There are no interactions listed for Prunus besseriana. Do you know of an interaction that should be listed here? edit this page to add it.
Polycultures & Guilds
There are no polycultures listed which include Prunus besseriana.
Descendants
Cultivars
Varieties
None listed.
Subspecies
None listed.
Full Data
This table shows all the data stored for this plant.
Taxonomy
Binomial name
Prunus besseriana
Imported References
Material uses & Functions
Uses
Material uses
None listed.
Medicinal uses
None listed.
Ecosystems
Native Climate Zones
None listed.
Adapted Climate Zones
None listed.
Native Geographical Range
None listed.
Native Environment
None listed.
Ecosystem Niche
None listed.
Root Zone Tendancy
None listed.
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