Spanish Almond Tree Characteristics

Blossoms in a soft pink make the Spanish almond tree especially attractive.

Spain is one of the main almond-producing countries in the world, since the almond needs long, dry summers and mild winters to develop. The Spanish almond tree grows in various parts of the Mediterranean and Pakistan and is characterized by its V-shape and pink flowers.

Features

The Spanish almond tree can grow to be over 30 feet when in the wild, but is usually kept at no more than 15 feet when grown in an orchard. The tree also gives off a pleasant aroma, and the branches are lined with white or light pink flowers. Spanish almond trees can live for about 50 years.

Geography

The Spanish almond tree was brought to Spain by the ancient Greeks and Egyptians. The tree also grows very well in California. According to Almond Board of California, the tree was introduced to this part of the U.S. by Spanish missionaries in the 19th century.

Additional Information

Spanish almond trees are pollinated by bees. The almond flowers that are pollinated in the spring season form drupes, similar to the drupes on trees of stone fruits like plums and apricots. As the Spanish almond fruit continues to mature, it develops a hull that has a leather-like consistency -- the seed inside of the hull is the edible part of the plant.

References

• Paralumun: Almond Tree
• Paramount Farms: Almond History