Characteristics of Almond Species

Almonds and their wild relatives are grouped within the genus Prunus. Over 30 almond species and over 20 interspecies hybrids have been reported worldwide. Several reported species may be the same and are thus synonyms. Consequently, the characteristics and identity of almond species need to be re-examined. Earlier classifications were based on the characteristics of branches, petiole length, leaf blade shape and size, and leaf pubescence, even though these characteristics show large environmental variations. Nut characteristics are less affected by environmental conditions making them valuable in classification revisions.