Prunus media — Edible Plant Database

What to Eat

Edible parts: Fruit, Seeds

The fruit can be eaten raw or cooked and contains a single large seed. The seed is also edible raw or cooked, but should not be eaten if it tastes too bitter.

Known Hazards

Although no specific mention has been seen for this species, it belongs to a genus where most, if not all members of the genus produce hydrogen cyanide, a poison that gives almonds their characteristic flavour. This toxin is found mainly in the leaves and seed and is readily detected by its bitter taste. It is usually present in too small a quantity to do any harm but any very bitter seed or fruit should not be eaten. In small quantities, hydrogen cyanide has been shown to stimulate respiration and improve digestion, it is also claimed to be of benefit in the treatment of cancer. In excess, however, it can cause respiratory failure and even death.

Where to Find It

Temperate.

Iran, Middle East,

Countries: United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Israel, Iraq, Iran, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Yemen

How to Identify

Deciduous tree with hermaphrodite flowers pollinated by insects. Grows in light sandy, medium loamy, and heavy clay soils with good drainage. Tolerates mildly acid, neutral, and mildly alkaline pH. Prefers moist soil and can grow in semi-shade or full sun.

How to Grow

We have very little information on this species and do not know how hardy it will be in Britain, though judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors in many parts of this country. It is possibly a hybrid, P. spinosa x P. cerasifera. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Thrives in a well-drained moisture-retentive loamy soil. Prefers some lime in the soil but is likely to become chlorotic if too much lime is present. Succeeds in sun or partial shade though it fruits better in a sunny position. Most members of this genus are shallow-rooted and will produce suckers if the roots are damaged. Plants in this genus are notably susceptible to honey fungus.

Propagation: Seed requires 2–3 months of cold stratification and is best sown in a cold frame as soon as it is ripe. Stored seed should be sown in a cold frame as early in the year as possible, with protection from mice. Germination can be slow, sometimes taking 18 months. Prick seedlings into individual pots when large enough to handle, overwinter in a greenhouse or cold frame, then plant out in late spring or early summer the following year. Half-ripe cuttings with a heel can be taken in July/August in a frame; softwood cuttings from vigorous plants in spring to early summer in a frame. Layering in spring is also an option.

Medicinal Uses

No specific medicinal use has been recorded for this species, but all members of the genus contain amygdalin and prunasin, which break down in water to form hydrocyanic acid (prussic acid). In small amounts this highly poisonous compound stimulates respiration, improves digestion, and produces a sense of well-being.

Other Uses

A green dye can be obtained from the leaves, and a dark grey to green dye from the fruit.

Wikipedia

Source ↗

Deciduous tree with hermaphrodite flowers pollinated by insects. Grows in light sandy, medium loamy, and heavy clay soils with good drainage. Tolerates mildly acid, neutral, and mildly alkaline pH. Prefers moist soil and can grow in semi-shade or full sun.