Peach (including Nectarine variants)
Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Angiosperms, Class: Eudicots, Order: Rosales, Family: Rosaceae, Genus: Prunus, Species: Prunus persica · Rosaceae (Rose family) · Simple, deciduous
Species
Prunus persica
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous
Family
Rosaceae (Rose family)
Shape
Lanceolate (spear-shaped) to narrowly elliptical with a long, tapering apex
Size
Approximately 4-6 inches in length and 1-1.5 inches in width, fitting the standard species range of 3-7 inches.
Margin
Serrate (finely toothed) to crenate; the margins often have small glands at the base.
Arrangement
Alternate
Rarity
Very Common (widely cultivated as a commercial fruit crop and ornamental tree).
Color & Pattern
Dark green on the upper surface, slightly paler beneath. The leaf shows a distinct, lighter-colored midrib and lacks any variegation or disease spotting.
Venation Pattern
Pinnate; the secondary veins curve slightly toward the apex as they approach the leaf margin.
Texture & Surface
Smooth (glabrous) and somewhat leathery; the upper surface has a slight waxy sheen.
Description
The leaf is part of a small to medium-sized tree known for its showy pink spring blossoms and succulent, stone-bearing fruit. The tree has a spreading canopy and dark, rough bark that often develops horizontal lenticels.
Key Features
Lanceolate shape, finely serrated margins, prominent light midrib, and lack of hairiness (glabrous).
Habitat
Prefer well-drained, acidic to neutral soil and full sun; typically found in orchards, home gardens, and temperate agricultural zones.
Geographic Range
Native to Northwest China; widely naturalized and cultivated across most temperate climates including the Mediterranean, United States, and Australia.
Condition Notes
Excellent health; the leaf is vibrant green with no signs of pests, fungal rust, or chlorosis.
Interesting Facts
Peach trees were first domesticated in China as early as 6000 BC; they arrived in America via Spanish explorers in the 16th century. The Peach is the state fruit of Georgia.
Medicinal & Uses
Primary use is for its edible fruit. The wood is occasionally used for turnery. In traditional medicine, peach leaf tea was sometimes used as a laxative, but this is dangerous due to chemical compounds.
Ecological Role
Provides early-season nectar for bees and pollinators; fruit serves as a food source for mammals and birds. It is susceptible to various pests like the peach tree borer.
Similar Species
Willow (Salix spp.) leaves look similar but usually have much finer teeth and thinner texture. Almond (Prunus dulcis) leaves are also similar but generally shorter and more dull.
Foraging Tips
Look for this leaf in abandoned orchards or edges of agricultural fields in late summer when fruit is ripening to confirm identification. Companion plants include other stone fruits like plums and cherries.
Toxicity Warning
Moderately Toxic. While the fruit flesh is safe, the leaves, bark, and 특히 (especially) the pits contain cyanogenic glycosides that can release cyanide if ingested in quantity.