Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous
Shape
Lanceolate to narrowly elliptic with an acuminate (tapering to a point) apex
Margin
Finely serrate (toothed)
Arrangement
Alternate
Venation
Pinnate venation with a prominent central midrib and fine secondary veins branching out.
Key Features
Finely serrate lanceolate leaves, distinctive glands often found on the petiole base, showy pink spring blossoms, and velvety fruits with a hard, grooved pit.
Description
The peach tree is a deciduous small to medium-sized tree growing up to 23-25 feet tall. It features lanceolate leaves, showy pink flowers appearing in early spring before the leaves, and delicious fuzzy or smooth stone fruits known as peaches or nectarines.
Habitat
Full sun exposure in well-draining, fertile, loamy soils with moderate moisture. Prefers temperate climates with chilling hours.
Native Range
Native to Northwest China in the region between the Tarim Basin and the north slopes of the Kunlun Mountains, now widely cultivated in temperate and subtropical regions worldwide.