Flowering almond (Prunus triloba ‘Multiplex’)

Flowering almond

Features and Characteristics

Prunus triloba, commonly called flowering almond, is a dense, rounded, deciduous, multi-stemmed shrub that typically grows 10-15’ tall and as wide. It is sometimes grown as a small tree. Pink, five-petaled flowers appear in a profuse early spring bloom (April in St. Louis). Flowers may be followed by globose red fruit (1/2″ diameter). Fruit is attractive to squirrels. Coarse, double-toothed, broad-ovate, medium green leaves (to 5” long) are often three lobed, hence the specific epithet. Foliage turns yellow in fall. Species plants are native to China, but may no longer exist in the wild. ‘Simplex’ is a single-flowered form that may be identical to the species.

Genus name from Latin means plum or cherry tree.

Specific epithet means three-lobed.

‘Multiplex’ is a popular double-flowered form that does not produce fruit.

Care and Maintenance

Best grown in moist, fertile, well-drained loams in full sun to part shade. Best flowering in full sun. Needs regular pruning to remove dead wood and to maintain attractive form.

Flowering almond (Prunus triloba ‘Multiplex’) Requirements

Hardiness zone	3 - 7
Sun light	Full sun to part shade
Water	Medium
Maintenance	Medium

Common Problems

Early spring flowers are susceptible to damage from frosts. It is susceptible to a large number of insect and disease problems. Potential diseases include leaf spot, die back, powdery mildew, cankers, black knot and verticillium wilt. Potential insects include aphids, scale, borers, caterpillars, tent caterpillars and Japanese beetles. Spider mites may also be troublesome.

Uses

Ornamental flowering shrub or small tree. Specimen or small group. Effective near patios. May be trained as a standard.

Flowering almond (Prunus triloba ‘Multiplex’) Details

Common name	Flowering almond
Botanical name	Prunus triloba 'Multiplex'
Plant type	Deciduous shrub
Family	Rosaceae
Hardiness zone	3 - 7
Water	Medium
Maintenance	Medium
Flower color	Pink
Flowering period	April
Height	10 - 15 ft.
Width	10 - 15 ft.