Apricot (Prunus armeniaca) KIOTO

Apricot (Prunus armeniaca) 'Kioto®'

Self-fertile French variety with large fruits, frost resistant.

'Kioto®' is a modern French apricot variety that has gained popularity due to its high frost resistance (in wood and during flowering) and disease resistance. It is an ideal choice even for marginal growing areas. It is characterized by early bearing onset, high and regular yields of large, attractive fruits.

Main advantages of the variety:

• High frost hardiness in wood and flower.
• Self-fertility and long flowering period.
• Large fruits (60 – 80 g) with firm flesh.
• Resistance to diseases and bruising.
• Suitable for marginal areas and higher altitudes.

Origin and Registration

• Country of origin: France
• Registration: Modern licensed variety.

Variety Characteristics

Tree

• Vigor: Medium strong. Easy to shape.
• Yield: Early onset, yields are high and regular.
• Flowering: Long and later (advantage against spring frosts). Flowers are pink.

Fruit

• Size: Very large (60 – 80 g).
• Shape and Color: Round, smooth. Skin matte yellow-orange, covered with bright red color.
• Flesh: Light orange, very firm, easily separates from the stone.
• Taste: Good, harmonious, and sweeter.
• Usage: Fresh consumption, processing, transport (tolerates transport well).

Resistance and Requirements

• Resistance: Highly frost hardy (up to -27 °C in wood), disease resistant.
• Requirements: No special growing requirements. Prefers sunny locations and permeable soil.

Cultivation Recommendations

• Pollination: Self-fertile (does not require a pollinator).
• Pruning: Regular maintenance pruning after harvest is important.

Harvest and Storage

• Harvest time: Mid-early, mid to late July.