Moorpark Apricot: A Monticello Mainstay

Prunus armeniaca 'Moorpark'

The Moorpark apricot tree was first introduced to the United States by Thomas Jefferson in 1790 after he made a formal request that the tree be planted throughout his home at Monticello. Its most notable attribute is the lusciously sweet apricots — a perfect addition to any salad or dessert and great for canning to enjoy at a later date. In addition to its fruit, the Moorpark apricot makes a beautiful addition to any landscape because of its beautiful whitish-pink flowers that bloom every spring.

Here are a few things to note before planting one in your yard.

Environmental Conditions

• Thrives in a variety of soils (acidic, loamy, moist, rich, sandy, silty loam, and well-drained) throughout zones 4–8.
• Does best in full sun with at least six hours of direct sunlight every day.

Physical Attributes

• Produces a whitish-pink flower that blooms every spring, followed by ripe apricots that appear mid to late summer.
• Grows at a fast rate, reaching up to 20' feet high and 20'feet wide at full maturity.

Tag us in a photo of your Moorpark apricot tree!