Prunus trichamygdalus facts for kids

Prunus trichamygdalus is a special kind of wild almond tree. It's often called the velvet almond because of its name in Persian, which means "velvet almond." This tree is very similar to the almond trees that grow the nuts we love to eat.

What is the Velvet Almond?

The velvet almond, or Prunus trichamygdalus, is a type of wild almond tree. It was first described in 1913 by a scientist named Heinrich von Handel-Mazzetti. This tree is closely related to the common almond, Prunus dulcis, which is the source of the almonds you might eat as a snack.

Where Does the Velvet Almond Grow?

This unique almond tree grows naturally in eastern Turkey. You can also find it in nearby areas of Iran, though it might have been brought there by people long ago. It prefers to grow in high places, usually between 1,250 and 2,100 meters (about 4,100 to 6,900 feet) above sea level. It especially likes rocky slopes made of limestone and deep valleys near Lake Van in Turkey.

How is it Different from Other Almonds?

Even though the velvet almond looks a lot like the almonds we eat, there are some small differences. Scientists have studied its genes and its shape to learn more.

• Its leaf stems, called petioles, are shorter than those of the common almond.
• Its leaves are also a bit smaller.
• The edges of its leaves have more small, wavy bumps, which are called crenulations.

Appearance and Features

The velvet almond tree has pretty pink flowers. After the flowers, it grows green fruits. These fruits contain the almond nut inside, just like other almond trees. While some types of this wild almond might be grown by people, especially if their nuts are not bitter, it mostly grows wild in its mountain home.