Almonds (Prunus dulcis) are a deciduous fruit tree within the rose (Rosaceae) family, along with other tree fruits such as peaches, apples, pears, plums, cherries, and apricots. Within the genus, almonds are most closely related to the peach, and hybrids of the two are used as rootstocks. Almonds are native to the Mediterranean region of the Middle East, explaining their requirement of mild winters and long dry summers. Domesticated by at least 3000 BC, the almond was brought to California in the 1700s by Spanish padres who settled the mission at Santa Barbara and plants were cultivated commercially in California by the turn of the century.

Almond Blossom

Almond Blossom Feb 2010