Flowering Pink Almond
Flowering almond, or double flowering plum (Prunus triloba), is a deciduous tree with gorgeous spring flowers blooming pink with double petals. This medium growing Rosaceae family member is a lovely addition to accent shrub borders around parking lots, strip plantings, or around a deck or patio. The flowering almond makes a striking specimen plant. The shape of the flowering pink almond is a symmetrical, vase-shaped canopy with a smooth outline and a profusion of light green leaves. Growing flowering almonds reach around 12 feet (3.5 m.) with an equal spread. This non-native can be grown through USDA zones 4-8. The flowering almond is drought tolerant with a moderate growth rate.
Flowering Almond Care
The flowering almond tree is a fairly resilient cultivar. This Prunus may be planted in sun, partial sun, or shade in a variety of soils, with the exception of overly saturated conditions. Location in a ground cover or mulched bed is advisable as the tree does not tolerate damage caused by mechanical injury or other stress. The flowering almond tree is partial to pruning either for training purposes or to facilitate more prolific blooms. It is even tolerant of heavy pruning, so it makes for a terrific container plant that can be molded into a bonsai. Pruning flowering almond, however, is not necessary to maintain the structure of the tree but may be used to restrain wayward branches or maintain pedestrian access. Branches can be cut in early spring and then forced to bloom by being placed indoors for stunning floral arrangements.
Flowering Almond Tree Problems
Flowering almond trees are susceptible to a number of insect marauders. Aphids can cause leaf distortion. Borers attack trees already in stress, so be sure to maintain a regular irrigation application and fertilizing schedule. Several types of scale are known to infest the flowering almond and can be treated with horticultural oil during its dormant phase. Tent caterpillars make large nests and can seriously damage foliage. Prune out any small infestations immediately and use Bacillus thuringiensis as soon as the insects are spotted. Severe wet weather lends itself to a fungus which creates holes in the foliage and causes the leaves to drop. Black knot causes black swelling of the branches, which can be pruned out and powdery mildew may coat the foliage.
