Apricot - Moorpark

Common Name:
Moorpark Apricot

Description:
The Moorpark apricot (Prunus armeniaca 'Moorpark') is one of the most well-known and highly prized apricot varieties, renowned for its exceptionally rich flavour and juicy, sweet flesh. This mid-to-late season variety produces large, golden-orange fruit with a slightly blushed skin and firm texture, making it ideal for fresh eating, drying, jams, and preserves. The tree is a strong, upright grower with high productivity when given full sun and well-drained soil. It requires moderate winter chill to ensure reliable fruiting and benefits from regular pruning to encourage airflow and healthy growth. While Moorpark is partially self-pollinating, planting another apricot variety nearby can significantly improve fruit yield. This variety is a favourite among home gardeners and orchardists for its superior taste and versatility.

Form:

• Tree - Small
• Tree - Medium

Mature Size:

• Height: 3–5m (can be pruned smaller)
• Width: 3–4m

Aspect:

• Full Sun

Flowering:

• Flowers in Early Spring

Flower Colour:

• White to Pale Pink

Key Attributes:

• Edible Fruit
• Partially Self-Pollinating (benefits from a pollinator)
• Suitable for Espalier
• Suitable for Pots (when grown as a dwarf variety)
• Bee Attracting
• Excellent for Fresh Eating, Drying, and Preserves

Toxicity:

• Leaves, seeds, and pits contain cyanogenic compounds and should not be consumed

Companion Plants:

• Other apricot varieties (Early Moorpark, Trevatt) for better pollination
• Peaches and nectarines (similar growing conditions)
• Lavender (attracts pollinators)
• Borage (improves fruit set)
• Marigolds (helps deter pests)