Edmonton's locally discovered apricot! The Capilano apricot is actually a series of three apricot trees that were planted in Edmonton's Capilano neighbourhood. They are believed to be seedlings that were planted by a local resident sometime in the 1960's. They soon caught the attention of local fruit harvesters and hobbyists.
Our Capilano Apricot is true to type of the most popular southernmost tree. It is the hardiest and sweetest of the trio and also of good size averaging 5 cm (2") in diameter. You'll love these delicious and large flavourful freestone apricots. Harvest occurs from mid to late July.
Growers Note: Apricots' main pitfall on the Canadian Prairies is flowering early and getting hit by our late frosts. The tree may be hardy but not their flowers! Even the Capilano tree would only reward us with apricots every four years or so depending on the weather. Try planting your apricot tree where the trunk won't see much spring sun. But you don't need to completely shade the tree, just around the base. The idea is to keep the ground cool and prevent warming. Piling up snow and adding leaves around the base will also help. This may give you up to an extra week or two before it flowers.
Hardiness Zone: 3b/4
Height: 7.3 meters (24 feet)
Spread: 6 meters (20 feet)
Soil Preference: Well drained
Light Exposure: Full sun
Pollination: Self-sterile (needs another apricot planted nearby)
Latin Name: Prunus ‘Capilano’