Typical Apricot Size for Fruit and Trees
Gain a clearer understanding of apricot dimensions, from the fruit's average diameter to the tree's mature height, and the key factors that guide growth.
The apricot is a stone fruit appreciated for its sweet flavor and soft texture. When discussing apricot “size,” the term can refer to two distinct aspects: the dimensions of the fruit and the overall size of the tree it grows on. Understanding these distinctions is useful for everything from selecting fruits at the market to planning an orchard space.
Typical Apricot Fruit Size
The physical measurements of apricot fruit fall within a consistent range. An average apricot has a diameter of about 1.5 to 2 inches (3.5 to 5 centimeters), making the fruit comparable in size to a golf ball or a large chicken egg. In terms of weight, apricots range from 1.2 to over 2 ounces (35 to 60 grams), though some larger cultivars can exceed this. For instance, certain Serbian apricot genotypes have been observed with fruit weights between 37 and 81 grams. Commercial grading systems classify apricots by diameter, with a common size for retail packaging being around 45 to 55 millimeters.
Apricot Tree Dimensions
The dimensions of an apricot tree (Prunus armeniaca) differ based on its type. A standard, mature apricot tree grows between 15 and 25 feet tall with an equally wide canopy spread. Some varieties can reach heights of up to 30 feet (about 9 meters) if left unpruned.
For those with less space, dwarf and semi-dwarf varieties present a more manageable alternative. Semi-dwarf trees reach a height and width of 12 to 15 feet. Dwarf apricot trees are more compact, maturing at about 8 to 10 feet tall and wide, making them suitable for smaller yards or large containers. The ‘Garden Aprigold’ is a dwarf variety that grows to less than 6.5 feet (about 2 meters) tall.
The size and shape of an apricot tree can be managed through regular pruning. Fan-training against a sunny wall is a popular method that keeps a tree’s height to around 6 feet while allowing its width to spread up to 16 feet. This practice controls the tree’s size and can improve fruit ripening by maximizing sun exposure.
Factors That Determine Apricot Size
The size of an apricot fruit is the result of several interacting factors, from the tree’s genetics to the care it receives. One of the most significant determinants is the specific cultivar. Some varieties are genetically predisposed to produce larger fruit, with studies showing fruit weight can vary from 14 grams to over 90 grams depending on the type.
A horticultural practice that directly impacts fruit size is thinning. When a tree produces a heavy crop, the fruits compete for a limited supply of water and nutrients. By manually removing some young apricots, a gardener allows the tree to allocate more resources to the remaining fruit, resulting in apricots that are larger and have better flavor.
Consistent irrigation and proper nutrition are also important for achieving maximum fruit size. Water is a primary component of the fruit, so a steady supply during its development is necessary for cell expansion. Nutrients, particularly potassium, play a part in moving sugars from the leaves to the fruit, which fuels growth.
Climate and sun exposure contribute to the overall health of the tree, which in turn affects fruit development. Trees planted in full sun with good air circulation are better able to photosynthesize, producing the energy needed for a quality harvest. The temperature during the early weeks of fruit development can also influence the growth rate.