Apricots

Apricots are fine, ornamental small trees with an early spring bloom and bright orange-yellow fall color. Because two varieties of apricots are needed for cross-pollination, U of M ‘Sungold’ and ‘Moongold’ cultivars make a good planting combination. The fruit is fair for fresh eating and good for preserves and sauces.

University of Minnesota Apricot Varieties

Moongold

  • Golden yellow 
  • Very hardy
  • Blooms the third week of April
  • 1 3/4" fruit hangs on tree until ripe
  • Self-unfruitful
  • Freestone
  • Ripens late July
  • Released in 1960
Sungold apricots on a tree

Sungold

  • Yellow with red blush
  • Very hardy with an upright growth habit
  • 1 1/4" fruit with clear flesh, hangs on the tree until ripe and has a mild flavor
  • Blooms third week of April
  • Requires another apricot for cross-pollination
  • Freestone
  • Ripens early August
  • Released in 1960